Valencia have announced former midfielder Ruben Baraja as the replacement for Gennaro Gattuso. His appointment has been confirmed by the club in an official statement.
The extent of his deal has not been revealed, but one can expect it will at least be until the end of the season if not 2024. He joins the club having managed other Spanish teams such as Elche, Rayo Vallecano, Real Zaragoza, Tenerife and Sporting Gijon.
Ruben Baraja returns to Valencia as first team manager
“‘Pipo’, one of the most decorated and illustrious players in the history of Valencia CF, knows the idiosyncrasies of the club and returns home to contribute with his professionalism and commitment as a coach after forging his legendary figure in the 2000s by helping to win two La Liga titles, a Uefa Cup, a European Super Cup and a Copa del Rey,” the official statement read.
“In the coming days he will take charge of the team at the Ciutat Esportiva de Paterna and his coaching staff will include another Valencia CF legend, Carlos Marchena.”
Valencia started the season well under Gattuso, but fell off in subsequent matches. They now find themselves at serious risk of relegation from La Liga, one point from safety. Ruben Baraja becomes the tenth manager to lead the club in nine years, showcasing the tumultuous situation at the club.
Fans have been protesting against the ownership of Peter Lim very prominently in the last few weeks. And it now remains to be seen whether their worst fears will be avoided or realised by the end of the campaign.
