Corberán Prepares for Valencia-Levante Derby with Optimism and Strategic Insights

omidbasir- After extinguishing the turmoil caused by Dimitrievski’s incident, Carlos Corberán focused on the upcoming Valencia-Levante derby during the pre-match press conference. He addressed the recent changes within the sports structure, including the departure of Corona and a meeting between Football CEO Ron Gourlay and President Kiat Lim in Singapore. Corberán expressed appreciation for the full attendance at Mestalla on Friday and highlighted the threat posed by Etta Eyong from the Levante squad. Furthermore, he confirmed that Foulquier and Ugrinic are ready to be included in the squad.

Regarding Ugrinic’s condition, Corberán noted, “Foulquier and Ugrinic have participated in partial or nearly full training sessions with the team. Foulquier has completed more partial sessions, whereas Ugrinic has been involved in more complete ones. Both will be in the squad, understanding that being included doesn’t necessarily mean they are in optimal condition due to their long recovery from injuries. However, it is positive to have them back. Against Betis, we didn’t change our defensive approach but did introduce a three-man build-up in attack. We adapt our tactics based on the opponent, but what stood out in the match against Betis was the players’ personality and initiative in executing our game plan.”

When asked if the match against Betis and the subsequent break could represent a turning point, Corberán replied, “We always strive for improvement, which is within our control. Playing at Mestalla is always the best news and the primary desire of this squad. While we didn’t achieve the desired result in our last match, we want to emphasize our strengths and refine our weaknesses. We have a tremendous opportunity at Mestalla to demonstrate to our fans that we’re eager to change our results.”

Discussing the significance of his first derby against Levante being held on a Friday, he remarked, “The choice of Friday isn’t something we dictate; we simply adapt. However, I want to underscore the incredible response from our fans as tickets are sold out. Having such support only intensifies our desire to show them what they deserve. That’s what this squad aims for, and we must prove it.”

On the possibility of continuing recent structural changes, Corberán stated, “My goal has always been for the team to play as effectively as possible; my ambitions remain unchanged. Sometimes we achieve this, and sometimes we don’t. Our aim is for the results to stem from sturdy defense and bold attack. Adjustments are often necessary, dictated by the opponent. Improvement is a continuous process that should never cease. The other day, there were moments when the team felt comfortable and fluid with the ball, but every match presents its own challenges.”

Regarding the departure of Corona and the news from Gourlay’s meeting in Singapore, Corberán said, “I regret I cannot provide as much information as you seek. Corona’s relationship with the club extends beyond mine, and during my time with him, our interactions were cordial, close, and daily. I wish him the best in this new chapter. Regarding the new structure, it’s not my place to comment. My focus remains on instilling an identity in the team, which has not changed since day one. I cannot address the normal concerns that arise.”

When asked if he believes the new appointee should understand Valencia’s history, he responded, “The history Valencia has built has brought recognition to the club worldwide. My focus is on ensuring the fans see the Valencia we aspire to be—a brave and daring team, as Valencia speaks for itself.”

As for Diakhaby and Ramazani, Corberán explained, “Out of the four injuries we had, two were of one type and two of another. The first two were not muscular injuries but tendon or cartilage issues, and both Foulquier and Ugrinic have returned. We must now manage the training load and match fitness. The muscular injuries, concerning Diakhaby and Ramazani, were of a longer duration. Their expected return timeline is similar, around ten days to two weeks, but only time will tell as they progress in training. The recovery is going well, but the exact return date remains uncertain.”

Highlighting the strengths of Levante, he remarked, “Levante is a highly competitive team, as evidenced by their performances against Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético, winning away matches. They maintain a solid core while incorporating reinforcements that elevate their level. I don’t believe in momentum; past events don’t dictate future outcomes. I have confidence in our mentality and our determination to change our trajectory.”

Discussing Etta Eyong’s impact, who has scored six goals and provided three assists, he noted, “When a player achieves such statistics, it indicates their importance. Eyong is a player who demands a lot from us and works hard defensively for the team. He’s a formidable forward with physical attributes that make him valuable to Levante. His performance has raised our need for concentration and diligence.”

When asked about his interest in signing Eyong during the summer, he replied, “During the transfer window, rumors are typical. I have two specific forwards, and I am very pleased with my squad. My aim is to maximize the performance of this roster.”

Reflecting on the derby’s unique atmosphere, Corberán stated, “I spend too much time at the club and with family, leaving little time for socializing. For us, the derby is special for many reasons, not just one. It’s an important match, and we feel that way. Playing at Mestalla is always an opportunity to give our best to the fans. We aim to reverse our recent results… All of this combined fuels our eagerness for this match.”

On his thoughts about Levante’s coach, Julián Calero, he mentioned, “I haven’t had the chance to work with Julián, but we have mutual acquaintances who speak highly of each other. I respect his work; he successfully guided Levante back to the top division during a challenging period. He instills his ethos into his team, making it difficult to overcome.”

Corberán acknowledged that Valencia improved against Betis by positioning Pepelu as the playmaker, and he considered other options for facing Levante, saying, “The team must always possess various options in a match, as this increases uncertainties for the opponent. If the team feels comfortable with these options, it enhances competitiveness. Depending on how the opponent presses, we aim to create numerical advantages.”

Addressing Lucas Beltrán’s lack of shots on target, he remarked, “Lucas is a different player compared to Sadiq or Hugo Duro, and I value having players with diverse qualities.”

In response to Levante’s complaints about the Friday match schedule and its impact on international players, Corberán stated, “Neither Levante nor Valencia set the match timings. Clubs build squads to navigate injury adversities and breaks… We approach the match on equal footing.”

Finally, when reflecting on the positive aspects of the international break during which he worked with almost the entire team, Corberán concluded, “We will only know the outcome in the match. However, I have seen a committed squad, eager and motivated… This doesn’t surprise me, as they have been working hard, although the results haven’t always followed. Nevertheless, we head into this match with the utmost enthusiasm.”