Valencia Faces Crucial Match Amid Injury Concerns and New Signings

VALENCIA, Spain — Valencia CF prepares for a pivotal La Liga clash against Real Sociedad at Mestalla Stadium on Sunday, with both teams vying for crucial points in their respective campaigns. Valencia, struggling to secure a win in nearly two months, faces mounting pressure as direct rivals like Espanyol and Alavés widen the gap in the relegation battle.

Head coach Carlos Corberán addressed the media at the Ciutat Esportiva de Paterna, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming match. “This game is key for us at Mestalla,” Corberán said. “We need to turn our home ground into a fortress in the second half of the season.”

Valencia’s hopes were dampened by the absence of Umar Sadiq, the Nigerian forward on loan from Real Sociedad, who is sidelined with a knee injury. The club opted not to pay the €300,000 fee required to activate his participation due to the “fear clause” in his loan agreement. “Sadiq has discomfort in the back of his knee, and we decided it was best not to risk him,” Corberán explained.

Despite setbacks, there is optimism surrounding the return of key players. Captain José Luis Gayà and winger Luis Rioja, who had been doubtful due to minor injuries, were included in the matchday squad. “Both Gayà and Rioja are in good condition and ready to contribute,” Corberán confirmed.

New signing Max Aarons, a right-back on loan from Bournemouth, has also joined the squad. Aarons, who was encouraged to join Valencia by former player Justin Kluivert, expressed his eagerness to make an impact. “I want to show my best level here,” Aarons said during his presentation. Corberán praised Aarons’ ambition and adaptability, stating, “He has the right mentality to integrate quickly.”

Valencia’s recent form has been inconsistent, with the team dropping points in stoppage time in their last two matches against Real Madrid and Sevilla. Corberán remains confident in his squad’s ability to compete. “The players have shown they can fight in every aspect of the game,” he said. “We are building our identity.”

The club’s struggles at home have been uncharacteristic, with Mestalla historically being a stronghold for Valencia. Corberán believes the stadium’s atmosphere can still play a decisive role. “Mestalla has the power to push the team forward, and we need to harness that energy,” he added.

Corberán also highlighted the importance of Valencia’s youth academy, praising the development of young talents. “We have one of the most important academies in Spain,” he said. “Several players are ready to step up when needed.” This sentiment was reinforced by the inclusion of academy products Warren Madrigal, Iker Córdoba, and Rubo Iranzo in the matchday squad.

As Valencia seeks to break its winless streak, the match against Real Sociedad represents a critical opportunity to reignite their season and climb out of the relegation zone.