Eldense president Carolina Ólguin issued a statement on Thursday following the club's announcement that she would step down from her position. In her farewell letter, the executive, who has overseen the club's operations until now, congratulated Messi on becoming the new owner.

"I have left it in the best hands," Ólguin stated, urging the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner to care for and respect what Eldense means to its people, and expressing confidence that the club's future "could be magnificent."

"Eldense is entering a new era with Lionel Messi, who, in my view, is the greatest living legend in world football," said the Colombian executive. "Being able to hand over this club to him is a great honor for me and, above all, gives me peace of mind knowing I have left it in the best hands."

Ólguin noted that it is a "century-old club (which today celebrates its 105th anniversary) with a city that experiences it, suffers it, and loves it," and made a direct appeal to Messi. "Please take care of it, respect what it means to our fans, and bring great dreams to Elda. I am convinced that what comes next could be magnificent," she added.

She also addressed the Eldense "blue and red family," hoping they would welcome Messi as warmly as she knows they will. "Let him feel from day one what the Eldense sports club means, what this fanbase means, and what Elda means," she said.

One year in charge

Ólguin reflected on her year leading the club after acquiring shares from Pascual Pérez, saying she initially aimed to "contribute, add value, and build a solid project capable of looking to the future with ambition, because the sky is the limit."

The former president expressed "immense pride and deep gratitude," but acknowledged that the journey "was not easy," requiring "difficult, complex, and often unpopular decisions."

"It was those decisions, even the most difficult ones, that brought us to today," Ólguin said, expressing satisfaction with the promotions of the women's team, reserve team, and first team—the latter returning to the Second Division. She thanked everyone "who gave their all," as well as the coaching staff and fans.

She also thanked the Elda City Council, calling it "a key piece" during this period, and specifically commended Mayor Rubén Alfaro. She praised the sponsors, media, and club staff as well.

"I also want to address the doubters. Your skepticism and criticism did not deter me; instead, they motivated me to work harder than ever. They pushed me to constantly challenge myself, defend my convictions, protect the club, and once again prove my capabilities and character," she emphasized.

Ólguin said she did not want to leave with only a few words. "To the women of Elda: believe in your strength and boldly claim the place that is yours. Do not let anyone tell you how far you can go," she urged. "To the boys and girls of our academy and this city: never stop dreaming. Pursue your goals with passion and persevere when others doubt," she concluded.

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