OFFICIAL: Ruben Baraja sacked by Valencia

Ruben Baraja is no longer Valencia's head coach. The 'Che' have decided to relieve the Spaniard of his managerial duties at the club following an abysmal run in the league as Valencia currently find themselves bottom of La Liga with 12 points from 17 games.

Valencia's latest 2-2 draw against Alaves, which saw the visitors claim a last-gasp equaliser in stoppage time, was the breaking point of a disappointing first half of the campaign for Baraja. Baraja's 5 million euro payout was the only thing that saved him from an earlier sacking, which looked to be only a matter of time given the poor results. 

"Valencia CF have decided to bring to an end Ruben Baraja's time as first team coach. The club would like to publicly thank Baraja for the passion, dedication and commitment that he has shown from the first to the last day of his tenure in charge," reads a statement from the club. "The dynamic of results during this season has required a decision that has been very difficult to make, but which has been taken with the aim of turning the situation around and achieving better results", Valencia added. 

While a replacement is yet to be named, an announcement is set to arrive in the next few days. Baraja's successor will be taking charge of Valencia for the first time in their clash against Real Madrid, which had to be postponed due to the devastating floods that hit the region. Quique Sanchez Flores is reportedly in pole position to take the reins.

 

December 23, 2024