Braulio Vázquez steps up Valencia manager search: Javier Aguirre emerges after Valverde and Mendilibar ruled out
Valencia's new sporting director continues his hunt for a head coach to replace Carlos Corberán. Ernesto Valverde and José Luis Mendilibar have both ruled themselves out after stating they do not intend to return to management in the short term. Javier Aguirre is now among the leading candidates.
ByInfoBlaugrana
3 min read
Braulio Vázquez is already making his first big call as Valencia's sporting director, and he is in no rush. The Galician officially took over last Sunday following Ron Gourlay's dismissal and has since been working to find a replacement for Carlos Corberán. His two initial targets, Ernesto Valverde and José Luis Mendilibar, have both indicated they do not plan to return to the dugout in the near future, leaving the search wide open.
- Braulio Vázquez is leading the search after Corberán's exit.
- Valverde and Mendilibar ruled themselves out of an immediate return.
- Javier Aguirre is valued for his character and dressing-room management.
- The three-week international break gives Valencia time to decide.
- Óscar Sánchez remains interim boss against Real Sociedad.
Braulio moves forward after two high-profile rejections
The new sporting director does not want to make a hasty decision. With Valverde and Mendilibar out of the picture, Braulio has begun contacting both Spanish and foreign coaches to assess their availability and willingness to join. The aim is to find a profile that fits the project, not just someone to put out the current fire but a figure capable of bringing longer-term stability.
Javier Aguirre: a short-term solution with clear appeal
Mexican coach Javier Aguirre is one of the names on the shortlist. His personality and, above all, his ability to manage a dressing room make him an attractive option to steady the ship quickly. However, there are some doubts inside the club about whether he fits a project designed for the longer term.
Financial limits will shape Braulio's plan
Braulio is set to meet with Valencia's financial director, Inma Ibáñez, to find out exactly how much room for manoeuvre the club has this season. That information will be key when it comes to planning the new coach's arrival and preparing for the January transfer window, where Valencia will look to strengthen the squad.
Óscar Sánchez stays in charge for Real Sociedad test
While the final decision is made, Óscar Sánchez remains in temporary charge of the first team. The Mestalla coach will sit on the bench this Sunday at Mestalla against Real Sociedad, having already enjoyed a winning debut at Mendizorroza. After that match, a three-week international break will leave Valencia without league action.
Three weeks to decide and reconnect with the fans
The schedule works in Braulio's favour. Valencia will not play another league fixture until after the international break, giving the sporting director three weeks to choose the right candidate. The goal is not only to change the team's dynamic but also to rebuild the connection with a fanbase going through one of its most frustrated periods in recent times.
Frequently asked questions
Why did Valencia rule out Valverde and Mendilibar?
Both coaches made it clear they did not intend to return to management in the short term. That personal decision closed the door on the two first options Braulio Vázquez had in mind.
Who is the favourite to coach Valencia now?
Javier Aguirre is one of the names under consideration. His strong personality and dressing-room management make him appealing for the short term, though there are concerns about a longer-term fit.
How long does Braulio Vázquez have to pick a coach?
Valencia has a three-week international break after the Real Sociedad game. That window gives the sporting director time to make a considered decision before league play resumes.