Elche relegated from La Liga because of unpaid debts; Eibar reportedly reinstated

Out with Elche CF.

The financial trouble that consumes Spanish football claimed another victim Friday, as Elche were relegated from La Liga because of unpaid debts to the State Tax Administration Agency.

Elche, who finished 13th in La Liga last season, were sanctioned during the 2014-15 campaign as well as in 2013-14 because of "serious infractions committed," leading the league's Social Discipline Judge to relegate the club following their latest relapse and assign them with a fine of more than €180,000.

As a result, Eibar, who were the the smallest club in La Liga last season and who were relegated on the final matchday, will reportedly be reinstated to the top flight of Spanish football.

Eibar president Alex Aranzabal acknowledged that nothing is guaranteed for his club following the ruling, saying: "It's an important step but not a definitive one." He also denied that Eibar had denounced Elche ahead of the decision, insisting that the records were opened by the Liga de Futbol Profesional.

An appeal will likely be made by Elche as they recently announced their intention to do so if they were relegated due to their unpaid debts.