Carlos Corberán’s Arrival at Valencia: A Year of Challenges and Opportunities

The arrival of Carlos Corberán at Valencia on Christmas Eve 2024 ignited a significant internal debate, as noted by Miguel Corona, the club’s former sporting director. Although other candidates were considered—some more prominent and favored among Valencia supporters—Corberán emerged as the choice that received backing from Singapore. To secure him from West Bromwich Albion, a transfer fee of €2.5 million was required. Following the dismissal of Rubén Baraja on December 23, with the team languishing in penultimate place with 12 points—four points away from salvation but with a game in hand—this decision to appoint Corberán was undeniably a high-risk gamble.

Under Corberán’s leadership, Valencia achieved a remarkable turnaround last season, securing their place in the league so decisively that they even entertained thoughts of European qualifications with three matches remaining. However, the new season has brought a downturn in performance and results. After 17 league matches—equivalent to the number played under Baraja prior to his dismissal—Valencia has amassed only 16 points, just one point above the relegation zone, despite being four points ahead of Baraja’s tenure.

On that Christmas Eve last year, discussions accelerated amid the challenges posed by time zone differences with Singapore, culminating in an agreement with Valencia. Corberán was in England at the time, preparing for a league match on December 26, the traditional Boxing Day. Amidst phone calls, messages, and document exchanges, he finalized his contract just before joining his family for a Christmas celebration, which holds special significance for him, knowing that he faced the monumental challenge of saving Valencia from crisis.

The official announcement of his hiring was made in the early hours of December 25. West Bromwich Albion, having lost their coach, quickly issued a statement given their upcoming match within 48 hours, while Valencia followed suit with an official announcement at 1:42 AM on Christmas Day.

Corberán’s arrival did not trigger an immediate turnaround, which further highlights the team’s resilient response. Valencia faced difficulties initially but found momentum thanks to the advantages of playing at Mestalla. At one point, they began two matches seven points away from safety due to prior results. However, victories at home against Real Sociedad, Celta, and Leganés cushioned the harsh blow of a 7-1 defeat in Barcelona.

After successfully securing their league status and under the new presidency of Kiat Lim, the club restructured its sporting division around Corberán. The appointment of Ron Gourlay as the new CEO of Football, with whom Corberán shares a professional and personal rapport from their time in England, was intended to provide support in decision-making.

Currently, while the situation is not identical, it is reminiscent of last year’s challenges. Valencia is actively working in the winter transfer market to strengthen the team and prevent a decline in performance during the second half of the season. Corberán specifically needs a forward, a central defender, a midfielder, and a right-back. Most urgently, he seeks a striker capable of playing with his back to goal. The club has resumed discussions to secure a player, with Nigerian forward Umar Sadiq being a priority after previous negotiations with Real Sociedad fell through last summer, leading to the acquisition of Lucas Beltrán. Sadiq has expressed interest in returning to Mestalla.