Braulio Vázquez weighs coaching options for Valencia bench

The arrival of Braulio Vázquez at Valencia’s sporting director role immediately sparks discussion over the next head coach after Carlos Corberán’s departure. According to MARCA, the new executive must get the match right not only for the dressing room, but also for the squad reality he will face in the short term—at least until the winter window.

Names without a job

Ernesto Valverde is the first name on the table. MARCA recalls his earlier stint at Mestalla: arriving in December 2012 to replace Mauricio Pellegrino, he helped steady a team in poor form and drove a second-half improvement, including a late push for fourth place. The report also notes the Champions League exit in the last-16 against PSG and stresses the positive relationship between Valverde and Vázquez from that period. However, there’s a clear caveat: a contract of “greater economic dimension” in a context constrained by financial fair play.

Arrasate’s shared track record

The other standout is Jagoba Arrasate. As MARCA points out, both built one of Osasuna’s most fruitful recent cycles, starting with his arrival in 2018. Together they achieved promotion to LaLiga, several comfortable survivals, a Copa del Rey final and even European qualification. The report also highlights the way Vázquez publicly backed Arrasate during periods of doubt—especially after the failed promotion attempt in 2017-18. Another important detail: in Pamplona, Arrasate ended the cycle by choice after six seasons, whereas at Mallorca he was dismissed in February after poor results.

Mendilibar’s immediate availability

Finally, José Luis Mendilibar enters the debate with force. MARCA says he has just been left free after being sacked by Olympiacos at the start of September. The big advantage, per the outlet, is that he’s available immediately, with extensive experience in Spain and a reputation for performing under pressure with limited resources. His direct approach and experience handling demanding dressing rooms could fit a Valencia situation that demands speed and an upgrade in performance.