Valencia’s Goalkeeping Crisis Deepens Amid Ongoing Struggles

This week, Valencia’s coach, Carlos Corberán, is grappling with several challenges, particularly in the goalkeeper position following Julen Agirrezabala’s injury during the match against Celta. After suffering a 4-1 defeat at Balaídos, the team remains entrenched in a sporting crisis, with only three victories to their name. As such, they risk slipping back into the relegation zone depending on Girona’s performance against Mallorca this Sunday at 18:30.

Regardless of their standings this week, what Valencia desperately needs is a victory to revive their fortunes. However, the situation is compounded by Hugo Duro’s suspension after receiving his fifth yellow card, along with the ongoing goalkeeper issues.

Agirrezabala has sustained a hamstring injury that may keep him sidelined for several weeks. He had previously played with protective gear on his left leg, indicating that he had been experiencing discomfort for some time.

Stole Dimitrievski’s recovery also presents a challenge. He is not fully healed from a muscular injury sustained on December 15. While he participated in part of last week’s training, his progress will depend on how he feels in the coming days. Initially, a recovery period of three to four weeks was anticipated, which he is just beginning to navigate.

Dimitrievski has only played two Copa matches this season, against Maracena and Cartagena, where he notably saved a penalty during extra time. Unfortunately, he was unable to participate against Sporting due to his injury. In Dimitrievski’s absence, Corberán opted for Agirrezabala, the team’s undisputed starter in La Liga, rather than third-choice goalkeeper Cristian Rivero.

One possibility is that Dimitrievski could expedite his recovery to be available for Saturday’s match against Elche at Mestalla at 21:00. If not, Rivero may find himself making his first start in La Liga under particularly challenging conditions, given both the team’s precarious situation and the growing discontent among the fanbase. Valencia has communicated to Rivero’s camp that they intend to offer him a contract extension. Additionally, they have a two-year extension option for Dimitrievski, who previously faced financial penalties for questioning the loan agreement that he believes puts him at a disadvantage.

However, Agirrezabala’s injury could force Corberán to rely on a goalkeeper who has had to apologize to his teammates for controversial statements. Rivero has expressed a desire to leave during the summer transfer window, indicating a willingness to explore new opportunities in the upcoming winter transfer market.