Luis Suarez won praise from Diego Simeone after LaLiga leaders Atletico Madrid beat Elche, though Joao Felix had to be replaced.
In their first LaLiga match since losing the Madrid derby, Atletico Madrid comfortably saw off Elche courtesy of a Luis Suarez double.
Luis Suarez has gone three games without a goal but Diego Simeone is hopeful the Atletico Madrid striker will soon regain his best form.
Ivo Grbic made his Atletico Madrid debut this week but will not be involved against Elche after testing positive for COVID-19.
Luis Suarez was once again omitted from the Barcelona squad but Ansu Fati is fit to feature in the Joan Gamper Trophy clash with Elche.
A day after the shock exit of Pacheta, the coach behind Elche's LaLiga return, the club announced Jorge Almiron as his replacement.
A dramatic late goal confirmed Elche's promotion back to LaLiga on Sunday following five years away.
Roma announced two new arrivals on Thursday, with Carles Perez and Gonzalo Villar arriving from Barcelona and Elche respectively.
Atletico Madrid head coach was full of praise for two-goal hero Fernando Torres following Wednesday's triumph over Elche.
Atletico Madrid cruised into the last 16 of the Copa del Rey thanks to a comfortable second-leg win over Elche.