Pepelu García’s Transformative Role in 2026: From Midfielder to Versatile Asset

Pepelu García has had an exceptionally noteworthy 2026. The midfielder has earned the trust of coach Carlos Corberán through his dedication and composure, especially considering that he was not a frequent option for the coach upon his arrival in Valencia. A dip in form during the early part of the 2024-25 season impacted his role when Corberán took over. Yet, this season, which began under similar circumstances, he has successfully turned things around.

Pepelu has proven to be one of the key players relied upon by Corberán during a period of significant sporting crisis, especially when the team struggled until November. The coach creatively assigned Pepelu a new role, positioning him deeper in the field to help facilitate ball progression. By December, the team showed improvement in this area.

However, 2026 has started off intriguingly for the Valencia midfielder. He has become a versatile asset in challenging situations, and at times, in unusual circumstances. Notably, in the first match of the year against Celta de Vigo, he donned the goalkeeper’s gloves after Agirrezabala sustained an injury and there were no substitutions left. While this was merely a symbolic gesture, it left an unforgettable image of the midfielder finishing the match in Balaídos wearing the gloves.

In a more challenging situation, during the match against Getafe, Pepelu had to shift from his role as a midfielder to that of a center-back due to Tárrega’s injury. This was not a decision made lightly; Pepelu had been preparing for this contingency for days. When the need arose during the game, he stepped into the role, especially given Comert’s physical issues, despite being included in the squad.

Corberán has publicly supported Pepelu for weeks, and he reiterated his faith in him after the Getafe match, stating, “I insist that a player’s personality can often compensate for their lack of experience. Pepelu has shown that personality by adapting to a position that is not his own; he played there briefly last season in a cup match. It’s rewarding to see players rise to the occasion, and when that effort is rewarded, it brings even greater joy.”

Last week, he also praised Pepelu for his decision to take a penalty against Elche with the score at 0-1 in the 87th minute, especially following a missed penalty in Vigo. Corberán remarked, “The personality and courage that Pepelu displayed in the last match cannot be trained. It’s all about character and determination. That’s something that cannot be taught, and it makes me proud.”

Valencia has long suffered from a lack of a physically imposing midfielder to challenge opponents. The team has struggled to maintain a competitive edge. However, the decision has been made to acquire a physical player, a ‘6’, which could jeopardize the positions currently held by Pepelu, Almeida, and Ugrinic, especially following recent matches that suggest Corberán may have found a successful formula.

Nevertheless, the introduction of a new ‘6’ may lead to a reduction in Pepelu’s minutes on the field.