Valencia CF continues to face a challenging atmosphere due to disagreements between the coaching staff, players, and management. The situation escalated early in the season after a 3-0 victory over Getafe, when it became clear that coach Carlos Corberán, the players, and club executives were lacking mutual understanding. Players were dissatisfied with several decisions made over the summer, and this discontent did not subside with the start of the league.
Team morale declined further after public statements by executive director of football Ron Gurley. His remarks claiming the club ‘needs men, not boys’ were seen by the squad as disrespectful. The players are closely monitoring statements from management and make no secret of their attitude toward such comments.
Despite internal disagreements, the players are not attempting to undermine the coach’s efforts. Within the team, it is emphasized that none of the leading players—including Hugo Duro, Diego López, César Tarrega, and Gayà—intend to give up on the field. The squad remains professional and continues to fight for results.
This week, an important meeting was held between the head coach and the team captains—José Luis Gayà, César Tarrega, Fulquier, and Pepelu. Over 45 minutes, both sides discussed ways to overcome the crisis and looked for compromises. Management acknowledges the problems and is working to find solutions, while Corberán himself asked the captains to openly point out his mistakes to help improve the situation.
However, concerns about the club’s future persist. Despite acknowledging the challenges, overcoming them will require time and effort. Gurli refrains from interfering in the locker room, as such actions could undermine the coach’s authority.
Additional complications arose after Mouctar Diakhaby’s injury, which will keep him sidelined for several weeks. Now the defense is forced to adapt, with Copete, Cömert, and Tarrega taking the field. This lineup raises concerns among experts, particularly since the team uses a mixed defensive system on set pieces, and if the players struggle to clear the ball, serious problems ensue.
