Javier Aguirre takes over Valencia, aiming to fix LaLiga's crisis

The Mexican Javier Aguirre was presented this Monday as the new manager of Valencia, a club that is second‑to‑last in the LaLiga table with only four points. The coach, who led his national team at the previous World Cup, arrives with the mission of turning the sporting situation around. “I can never say no to Valencia,” he said in the Mestalla press room.

Aguirre recalled his World Cup experience, emphasizing that he has managed a team in the top international competition. That background gives him authority to try to change the course of the Valencian side, which is fighting to get out of the relegation zone.

In his opening remarks, the manager expressed his admiration for the fans: “You have a brutal fanbase, I have come from a rival and you ‘acojonas’ as you say.” He added that he wants the stadium to be imposing for the opponent and that the team regains the positions it deserves.

Atmosphere and early challenges

According to Aguirre, the atmosphere in the dressing room is positive, but “this is about results, not about being liked or disliked.” He noted that there are between six and seven injured players and that they need to recover both physically and mentally before a definitive strategy can be set.

Aguirre warns Valencia must fight for survival at Mestalla

The signed contract is for one season with an option to extend; Aguirre described his approach as “a man who goes step by step” and stated that, if everyone is comfortable, he will continue.

Immediate goal: victory against Racing

The immediate plan, according to the coach, is to win the upcoming match against Racing de Santander, describing that victory as “the best message” the fans can receive. Aguirre insists that he must devote himself as soon as possible to bring joy back to the supporters.

Regarding the squad, he highlighted that it has a lot of individual talent, a great youth academy and quality, but that it is necessary to convince the players of their importance and get them to play accordingly. He stressed that the club’s identity requires commitment, sacrifice, willpower and love for the shirt.

He concluded that his teams are characterized by energy and that beating his own teams should cost blood, sweat and tears; although he was clumsy as a player, he always gave the last drop of sweat, because “effort is non‑negotiable.”