Challenges Ahead for Carlos Corberán at Valencia

Carlos Corberán is currently navigating the most difficult period since his arrival at Valencia. The Cheste-born coach has encountered his worst streak, having gone six matches without a victory, accumulating only two points from a possible 18. As a result, the team has been situated in the relegation zone for two consecutive weeks, is the second most conceding team in the league, and now faces a well-performing Betis, both in La Liga and Europe. Corberán has referred to this juncture as a “challenge” and has called for “an extra point of energy” from everyone involved. In an effort to enhance the team’s performance, the coach has experimented with both his usual formation and a three-central defender setup. “There is no room for doubt,” he responded when asked about altering his strategies.

On the significance of Mestalla, he expressed, “The importance of Mestalla is always paramount; there is no better moment to change our fortunes than in front of our supporters.”

Regarding the status of player Ugrinic, he stated, “I previously mentioned that he arrived without issues and had been competing, having played two league matches. However, discomfort began to develop in the second week, intensifying until the Girona match, which was a turning point. The player reports discomfort in a common area for athletes, the patellar tendon. He must adjust to the workload, and once the tendon allows him to perform all movements and the inflammation subsides, he will return to the group.”

When diagnosing the current situation, he acknowledged, “We understand the dissatisfaction with our performance. It pains us all not to deliver what the fans deserve. The solution lies in the collective effort of the team and staff; we will leave no stone unturned to improve our situation.”

Reflecting on the differences between this season and the last, he remarked, “Each season is unique. We have assembled the team with a different group of players, although an important core from last season remains. This is the challenge we face, and we approach the situation with the same enthusiasm as last year.”

With Betis coming off an impressive scoring record, he noted, “We focus on our capabilities and also recognize the strengths of our opponents. They possess significant offensive resources and are prepared to compete in both Europe and La Liga. We meet this challenge with absolute confidence in our potential.”

On the topic of the team’s identity, he stated, “The identity should not depend on who starts. Sometimes our intended style is clearer or less so, depending on the opponent’s approach. I perceive the same intensity and desire to do well.”

César Tárrega mentioned post-match at the Bernabéu that conceding the first goal affects morale significantly. Corberán responded, “When a team achieves the desired momentum, setbacks are embraced as challenges. Mental strength and persistence are crucial; setbacks are part of the game. It’s important to have confidence in our capabilities.”

When asked if he has begun to doubt himself after six matches without a win, he emphasized, “We analyze every match thoroughly. Before each game, we evaluate our identity and after each match, we analyze performance and results. This is a continuous exercise. In this demanding situation, I feel an extra drive of energy, personality, courage, and strength, which we collectively contribute to turn things around. I do not see room for doubt, only an opportunity for that extra effort that can change our circumstances.”

In assessing Betis, a club that regularly qualifies for Europe and increases their investment, he acknowledged, “They are doing many things right. Last year they reached the Conference final, and this year they are competing in the Europa League. Our focus remains on ourselves and achieving the best version of Valencia possible.”

Regarding the playing style, he noted, “The metrics that define your playing model relate to your intention. Mobility can be crucial, or not, depending on the situation. Pressing after losing the ball depends on where the ball is lost. If it’s lost in the opponent’s half, we can apply pressure; otherwise, it becomes difficult. We aim to continue being a brave, assertive, aggressive, and solid team. When we succeed, we seek reasons to persist; when we struggle, we aim to find solutions to regain our form.”

On potential changes within the sports structure, including the possible departure of Corona to Panathinaikos, he stated, “Ron [Gourlay] has communicated with you; my focus is solely on the match against Betis, which is crucial for us. We aim to return to Mestalla in the best possible way.”