Carlos Corberán expects to keep Valencia in La Liga. The 41-year-old Spaniard held his first press conference on Saturday as the new coach of the club from the city of oranges.
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Valencia's battle against relegation has brought about significant changes in the club's leadership. The decision to part ways with Rúben Baraja, a figure who holds legendary status within the club, was not taken lightly.
Baraja, who had been entrusted with steering Valencia through challenging times, ultimately could not deliver the results needed to lift the team from the brink of relegation. As a result, the club turned to Carlos Corberán, a coach with a growing reputation and a clear sense of mission, to take over the reins.
Corberán, a 41-year-old Spaniard, arrives at Valencia with a wealth of experience despite his relatively young age for a top-flight coach. Having most recently managed West Bromwich Albion in the English Championship, Corberán demonstrated his ability to adapt to difficult circumstances and get the best out of his players. Leaving West Brom was not an easy decision for Corberán, but the allure of managing a historic club like Valencia, coupled with the chance to return to Spain, proved too compelling to resist. Now, his task is as daunting as it is critical: saving Valencia from relegation, with the team currently sitting in a dire nineteenth position in La Liga.
During his introductory press conference on Saturday, Corberán was candid about the challenges ahead. “If I think about relegation, we’ve started poorly,” he admitted, signaling his awareness of the uphill battle he faces. Despite the difficult circumstances, Corberán exuded determination and optimism. “No, I haven’t spoken with Baraja, but I will try to build on what he did well at Valencia. I want to make the most of what has been done. I will do my best, and I’m here to work. I’m a Valencian who will give everything for this team.”
Corberán’s connection to Valencia runs deep. Born in the region, he has a personal stake in the club’s success, which he hopes will fuel his efforts to turn the team’s fortunes around. His passion for the task ahead was evident as he emphasized his commitment to the players and fans. “I am here to work tirelessly,” he stated. “Valencia is a club with a proud history, and it deserves to be in a much better position than it is now.”
While the possibility of new signings during the upcoming transfer window remains on the table, Corberán emphasized that his immediate focus is on the current squad. “I am fully aware that I’ve come here to work with the players already in the squad,” he explained. “I know that Valencia will look for reinforcements and that some groundwork had already been done before my arrival. But I look forward to getting to work with the team as it is.”
Corberán is not underestimating the quality of the players already at his disposal. Despite their struggles this season, he expressed confidence in their potential. “In this short time, I’ve been able to analyze the squad,” he revealed. “I am convinced these players can perform at a higher level because I’ve seen it. We need to recover the level I know they are capable of. My job is to help them regain their confidence and rediscover their form.”
The new coach also shared his broader vision for the club. “I have a very clear goal in mind and hope that we can put Valencia back in the position it deserves,” he said. “This is a team with a rich history, passionate fans, and immense potential. My role is to harness that and ensure we move in the right direction. I come with the conviction to work with those who are here, to build something meaningful, and to restore pride in this team.”
Corberán’s extensive coaching experience, which includes stints in Spain and England, has prepared him for the unpredictable nature of football. “I have a lot of experience, and football always brings unexpected challenges,” he noted. “I know these players are better than what they have shown so far, and I believe we can achieve great things together if we remain united and focused.”
Valencia’s supporters, known for their unwavering loyalty, will be watching closely as Corberán begins his tenure. The pressure is immense, but so too is the potential for a remarkable turnaround. As the team prepares for the next phase of the season, all eyes will be on the new coach to see if he can inspire a revival and guide Valencia away from the relegation zone. With his passion, determination, and strategic approach, Corberán is ready to face the challenge head-on, carrying the hopes of an entire city on his shoulders.
Updated: 02:30, 28 Dec 2024
