On 10 July 2018, free agent Cruz signed for Elche CF in the second division.[6] He immediately became a starter for the side, contributing with one goal and 39 appearances (play-offs included) during the 2019–20 season, as his side achieved promotion to La Liga.
On 30 August 2020, Cruz joined top tier side CA Osasuna on a three-year contract, for a fee of €2.75 million.[7]