The three things to know about Castellón’s LaLiga Hypermotion opener, one month to go | OneFootball

CD Castellón will start the 2026/27 LaLiga Hypermotion away to Real Sociedad B on the weekend of 14-17 August, with date and kick-off still to be confirmed. They return after finishing sixth last term and contesting the promotion play-off.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, pre-season began with medical and fitness checks from eight July, then training started on Monday 13 July under Pablo Hernández. The Castellón-born coach is into his first full pre-season in charge after extending, alongside assistant Sergi Ripollés, through June 2029.

The aim is to build on the surge in the second half of last season. Hernández reshaped the side, restored an enterprising, attacking approach and carried them to a play-off ended by Almería. He now has more time to embed ideas with a squad still set for significant change.

Recruitment has started. Midfielder Fran Castillo has joined from UD Ibiza on a deal to 2029, with Dutchman Jari Vlak arriving from ADO Den Haag. The defence has been bolstered by Agustín Sienra and Juanjo Nieto, while José Albert Andrés returns, and Álvaro Martín, Hamza Bellari and Iñigo Córdoba have also signed.

Departures include Ronaldo Pompeu, who will not continue, and Serpeta, loaned to Águilas. Álex Calatrava has been sold to Espanyol after an outstanding season, while Brian Cipenga also leaves. Salva Ruiz, Beñat Gerenabarrena and Tommaso De Nipoti depart too.

Four weeks of training, friendlies and further business remain before the opener in San Sebastián sets the tone for another tilt at promotion.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo