The challenge of returning to Spain’s top flight of women’s football leaves no room for distraction. Following last season’s relegation, the Primera Federación promises a fierce battle where only the champion secures a direct ticket, forcing the other contenders into the lottery of the promotion playoffs. While Levante UD has drawn most of the attention in their reconstruction phase, Alhama CF ElPozo is quietly emerging as the team best positioned to challenge their dominance in the silver category.
The Murcian side’s main asset lies in the stability of their bench. Juan Antonio García “Randri” continues to lead the sporting project, extending a tenure that is exceptionally rare in both professional and non-professional football. Unlike the deep transitions experienced by other relegated teams, the line of work in Alhama de Murcia maintains complete coherence. This continuity gives them a head start when the season kicks off on September 13—coincidentally against Levante.
A spine with a Castilian-Manchegan accent
To face this new assault on Liga F without losing competitiveness, Alhama’s sporting department has executed a market strategy centred on recruiting proven performers in the category, with one preferred scouting destination: the Ciudad Deportiva Andrés Iniesta. Up to four key players join from Alba Fundación, a direct rival that has become the main supplier of the new Murcian block.
In attack, the signings of Laura Moreno (25 years old) and Celia Gómez stand out. Both forwards will bring dynamism and speed to a frontline that struggled to capitalise on periods of dominance last season. They are joined in midfield by Lara Sierra (24 years old), a creative playmaker who developed in Real Madrid’s academy before gaining competitive experience at Racing de Santander and establishing herself as a regular in Albacete.
The goalkeeper position has also undergone a reliable overhaul. Following departures from last year’s squad, Alhama has signed Laura Martínez (also from Alba) and experienced British goalkeeper Chelsea Ashurst. The two will compete for a starting spot that will be vital in the tight matches that define the second division.
Back to the roots and local strength
Alongside the external signings, the club has sought to reinforce its local identity. The return of young defender Inma Balsalobre (17 years old) represents this commitment. The Murcian native returns to wear the blue shirt after a spell with Elche CF, offering a versatile option for the defensive line and confirming the club’s desire to give prominence to emerging talents from the region.
The true fortress for Alhama will once again be the municipal José María Soriano “Guadalentín” stadium. The warmth and pressure of the local crowd have historically made this ground one of the most intimidating away trips in the league. In a Primera Federación that will feature only one direct relegation spot this year due to the upcoming expansion to 28 teams, consistency at home will draw the line between those who sustain the title race and those who fall away early.
Randri García’s Alhama is not looking to experiment or execute a slow transition. With a squad reinforced in strategic positions, a deeply rooted identity, and a coaching staff that knows the division inside out, the Guadalentín block has drawn up a clear roadmap to step back onto the highest stage.
