Papi Gavi on Valencia: “If you sell at Sugus prices, you weaken”

Papi Gavi, a content creator and founder of Perreo FC, spoke to SPORT about how he sees Valencia handling this season’s start and what he believes lies behind the team’s swings. Alejandro Gavilán Martínez—better known as Papi Gavi—admits he tries to stay realistic, but points out that the match versus Alavés showed a very different side from the early rounds.

Youth sparks, but...

In his view, the turnaround came from faith in young players. He highlights that 18-year-old debutant Aaron Mayol put in a strong performance at Mendizorroza, and mentions that the “youth and that spark” have sometimes saved Valencia before.

Still, he argues the real problem is structural: “if the people upstairs don’t invest and your best assets are sold for Sugus prices, you end up weakening the team.” He warns that even if the club can keep afloat for a while, the long-term effect is burnout—especially if the squad is continuously stripped.

Coach changes without a plan

On the coaching situation, he says replacing the manager without a clear project is like putting on a temporary “bandage.” He believes Valencia should keep Óscar for now and continue with the current direction until there’s a genuine plan—and a manager aligned with it.

Ballon d’Or pick

Finally, he shared his favourite for the Ballon d’Or, backing Fabián, praising his impact in the World Cup and across the season. SPORT