Javier Aguirre starts at Valencia: “No more messages”

Javier Aguirre is already in charge of Valencia with a clear goal: “winning as soon as possible,” after taking over a side that has four points from the first seven league matches and sits 19th. In his presentation at Mestalla, the 67-year-old asked the group to focus on results and sent a direct message to the stands: “No more messages.”

Aguirre returns to LaLiga after spells at Osasuna, Atlético, Zaragoza, Espanyol, Leganés and Mallorca, and arrives coming off Mexico’s run at the 2026 World Cup. His contract runs to the end of the season, with an option tied to qualification for the Europa League via the league, though sporting director Braulio Vázquez suggested the extension won’t depend only on the final position: “We can finish 14th or 15th and renew Aguirre because we’re happy,” he said.

Early priorities and next match

He arrived on Thursday in Paterna, met the squad and has two weeks to prepare the opener against Racing Santander at El Sardinero. Aguirre said his first concern is to recover the injured players and that his quick read on the team points to “a lack of confidence.” He also stressed flexibility in the plan: “If I have to play a 1-5-4-1, that will depend on… the match and the opponent.”

A message for the fans and players

On how to get a reaction, the coach underlined that effort is non-negotiable: “Commitment is not negotiable.” He added that his idea is to be truthful with the players—“Don’t ever lie to a player. Tell him the truth”—and he set the fans’ immediate target: “We’ll play Racing. Let’s try to get a win as soon as possible.” As reported by MARCA, Aguirre also mentioned his conversation with Rafa Márquez, telling him to count on his help.