On 22 September 2025, Valencia CF’s head coach Carlos Corberán faced journalists before the team’s trip to the RCDE Stadium for a LaLiga encounter with RCD Espanyol. The atmosphere was tense – Valencia sit mid‑table, while Espanyol have figured out a formula that’s only cost them a single defeat, that loss coming against Real Madrid on the road.
Corberán didn’t hide his admiration for the Catalan side’s leader. “Manolo González is a great coach,” he said, noting the Spaniard’s role in guiding Espanyol back to the top flight and cementing a distinctive brand of play. “Last season they struggled, but they rebuilt with a clear style that’s now fully embedded. Their early‑season surge isn’t accidental; it’s the fruit of hard work and smart signings.”
He added that Valencia holds the club in high regard, applauding the way Espanyol develop talent and adapt tactics. The manager’s comments set the tone for a nuanced preview – respect for the opponent coupled with a clear call for his own squad to evolve.
Corberán was blunt about the team’s Achilles’ heel: performances away from the Mestalla. “We know we have to raise our competitive capacity when we’re not on home soil,” he admitted. The coach highlighted three key areas that must improve:
He warned that underestimating Espanyol would be a mistake. “They’ve only lost one match, and that was away at Real Madrid. It shows they can handle pressure. We must prepare mentally and physically for a fast, intense contest.”
Corberán also stressed the need for Valencia to be a “recognisable and competitive side” – a phrase that hints at both an attractive playing style and consistent results. He expects his players to show grit, keep possession under pressure, and exploit the occasional defensive lapses Espanyol might reveal.
While the coach praised the opposition, his underlying message was clear: Valencia must evolve, especially when traveling. The upcoming fixture serves as a litmus test for the squad’s ability to grow beyond home comforts and contend with the league’s upper echelons.
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