Three seasons after the club's last relegation from the Primera Division, the 1987-88 season saw Elche reclaim their place after a strong second tier promotion-winning campaign. The club finished as runners-up to Malaga thanks to a campaign built on great home form and strong defence - just 7 goals were conceded at home in 19 games.

There were goals at the other end of the pitch too for Los Franjiverdes with newcomer Sixto Casabona starring in attack. He quickly settled after his arrival from Valencia and scored 20 goals in 34 League appearances, the third best return in the division.