Aguirre lands in Spain to revive Valencia amid relegation fight

At 09:30 on a bright morning, Javier Aguirre stepped off the plane at Manises airport and was whisked straight to the Ciudad Deportiva in Paterna, where he met his assistants Pol Llorente and Toni Amor before greeting the Valencia squad in the dressing room.

First impressions and contract terms

The 67‑year‑old Mexican coach, known as "the Vasco", said he came for the club’s history, describing Valencia as a "fortress" with a passionate fanbase and a legacy he respects. He signed a one‑year deal with an optional second year that triggers if Valencia qualify for the Europa League, and a performance clause that allows a free exit should the team sit in the relegation zone after the 19th round.

He will have roughly two weeks to prepare before his official debut on 11 October against Racing de Santander at El Sardinero, following an introductory press conference at Mestalla the following Monday.

Club situation and ambitions

Valencia sit second‑last in LaLiga after seven matches, having collected only four points from one win. Aguirre acknowledged the “much work” ahead, insisting the squad possesses quality to climb out of the danger zone.

He stressed a direct, face‑to‑face dialogue with players, promising to address problems openly and maintain a calm, focused environment.

Javier Aguirre cancels Valencia rest with three Paterna sessions

Having led Mexico at the 2026 World Cup, where the team topped its group with three wins, six goals and no concessions before bowing out to England, Aguirre returned to Spain after contemplating retirement. He revealed he was in “limbo” about ending his career and had rejected four offers from other countries, including Mexico, before choosing Valencia because of his long‑standing ties to the country.

During his three spells with the Mexican national team he oversaw 98 matches, winning 60, drawing 20 and losing 18, and holds the record for most official games managed for the Tri with 50, achieving 33 victories.

His résumé in Spain includes stints at Osasuna, Atlético Madrid, Zaragoza, Espanyol, Leganés and Mallorca, making Valencia the seventh Spanish side to benefit from his experience.

Pol Llorente and Toni Amor will continue as key members of his staff, with new director of football Braulio Vázquez also joining the project.