CD Castellón’s pre-season reviewed as 11 signings push for places | OneFootball

CD Castellón have wrapped a short pre-season with a balanced return and encouraging signs, as 11 new arrivals jostle for places. El Periódico Mediterráneo notes the focus has been on bedding in a revamped squad.

They played six friendlies, finishing with two wins, two draws and two defeats. They beat Sabadell 2-0, then won the summer derby at Valencia 1-2. A 3-3 draw with Girona was followed by a 3-0 loss to Alavés, then a 0-0 with Hércules, winning the Trofeu de Alicante, and a 1-3 defeat to Levante.

Experience has told early, with Iñigo Córdoba, Álvaro Martín and Juanjo Nieto fully integrated. They look ready to make an impact from the start in Donosti.

Recruits from other leagues are still adjusting. Rodrigo Rego, Antonio Gala and Jari Vlak are building rhythm. The Italian has shown flashes and scored against Levante. David Nzanza also needs time, while goalkeeper Saipi has seen plenty of action.

From Primera Federación, Hamza Bellari has been among the most used this summer. Attacking midfielder Fran Castillo debuted late due to a knock and still needs minutes. Ilias Kostic has yet to feature as he continues recovery from a serious cruciate ligament injury sustained in October 2025.

With four days to the league opener, the squad return to work on Monday after a Sunday off to prepare for Real Sociedad B on Friday at 20.30. After a brief, intense pre-season, Castellón will aim to start well, improve on last season and try to fight for promotion.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”