Valencia CF Signs Defender Unai Núñez on Loan Until Season’s End

Valencia CF has officially announced on Friday the signing of central defender Unai Núñez on loan until the end of the season. The player is hopeful that La Liga will confirm his registration in order for him to be included in head coach Carlos Corberán’s squad for the upcoming match against Espanyol on Saturday at 16:15.

This reinforcement addresses Valencia’s pressing need for defensive support in light of the prolonged absence of Diakhaby—who has been deregistered to free up his spot—and the injury to César Tárrega. These setbacks have left Carlos Corberán with limited options, prompting the club to expedite this critical acquisition. As of Saturday, the team’s regular defensive lineup (Thierry, Diakhaby, Tárrega, and Gayá) is unavailable due to injuries and suspensions.

Núñez, aged 28, arrived in Valencia on Friday afternoon from Italy after an agreement was reached between Celta, Hellas Verona, and Valencia. Upon landing at Manises, he proceeded directly to the Ciudad Deportiva de Paterna, where he underwent medical examinations and had his first interactions with his new teammates, including a face-to-face meeting with the coach, with whom he had previously spoken by phone. He has since settled into the team’s usual hotel for new signings and quickly integrated into the team dynamic.

The defender arrives with significant competitive experience, having played 18 official matches this season with Hellas Verona in Serie A and the Coppa Italia, accumulating approximately 1,300 minutes of playtime. His desire to return to Spain was pivotal in allowing the Italian club to approve his departure, despite the difficult sporting situation at Verona.

Following his signing, Unai Núñez spoke with VCF Media about joining Valencia CF until the end of the season.

On arriving at Valencia: “I am very happy; I was eager for this to be finalized so I could be here and help my teammates and the club in any way possible. I hope this is a good moment for me to arrive and assist everyone.”

On competitive readiness: “I have been actively playing, and I will do my utmost to contribute, depending on what the coach and my teammates need. I come in good physical shape and am excited to join the team.”

On how the transfer came about: “Both the club and I were eager for this to happen, and everything went smoothly. I’m looking forward to working hard to support my teammates, the club, and the fans.”

On playing at Mestalla: “I am very eager because every time I have visited as an opponent, it’s been a stadium that greatly pressures rivals and motivates its players. I can’t wait to experience that as a Valencia CF player.”

On his perspective of Valencia: “It is a historic club in La Liga, with a passionate fanbase and an impressive stadium. I am excited to get started.”

On Agirrezabala in the squad: “All I’ve heard are positive remarks. He told me to come ready to help the team, and I’m very pleased to share the locker room with him again because he is a fantastic player.”