Valencia CF ended the year on a bittersweet note with a 2-2 draw against Deportivo Alavés at their home ground, Camp de Mestalla, as they faced mounting pressure from fans and pundits alike.
After the match on December 31, 2023, Valencia displayed both resilience and struggle. Alavés struck first just seven minutes before the break, as Carlos Martín capitalized on early indecision within the Valencia defense. Despite limited opportunities throughout the first half, the visitors found the net, leaving Valencia players scratching their heads as they headed to halftime.
Valencia CF managed to rally as the second half unfolded. They pressed for parity and were rewarded shortly after when Luis Rioja scored from the penalty spot, leveling the game at 1-1. The tension grew palpable among the fan base, still buzzing from the recent struggle to secure positive results.
The match intensified with sharp exchanges, as Valencia aimed for the go-ahead goal. A key moment materialized when Joan Jordán of Alavés restored their lead with another penalty just before full-time, making it 2-1. Yet, much to Valencia CF’s relief, substitute Dani Gómez clawed back the draw with his last-minute goal, sealing the fate at 2-2.
Despite salvaging the point, the scene post-match was rife with criticisms, especially from Valencia legend and commentator Santi Cañizares. He was unreservedly frank with his analysis, stating, "No vamos a llegar a Segunda y rebotar. Seguramente estaremos un tiempo en Segunda División." His remarks reflect not only concern for immediate performance but also the anticipation of prolonged challenges, should management remain unchanged.
Cañizares, appearing on the program Tiempo de Juego on Cadena COPE, emphasized, "La categoría se ha perdido hace mucho tiempo. Esta gestión aleja al aficionado del club." This declaration succinctly captured the feelings of many fans who have watched their beloved club fall from grace. A sense of detachment seems to have seeped between the supporters and the club management; this disconnect was palpable during yesterday's match.
Player performances also sparked widespread debate. Critics pointed to inadequate showings from several players who failed to control the game effectively. Cañizares noted, "Qué fútbol hace el equipo. Entre los tres peores del campeonato," highlighting the overall lack of quality exhibited on the pitch. Valencia’s game plan appeared disjointed, with several players—like Foulquier and Mosquera—struggling significantly against their rivals.
Looking to the future, Cañizares lamented, "Con esta gestión actual, con este despropósito nosotros no vamos a llegar a Segunda si caemos y vamos a subir, vamos a estar un tiempo porque la gestión es muy importante." He stressed the transformation required at management levels if Valencia wishes to reclaim its position among Spain's top clubs. His words resonate deeply with supporters hoping for tangible changes.
While the immediate focus lies on the match against Real Madrid on January 3, 2024, the specter of relegation looms heavy should performance levels not improve significantly. Cañizares warned, "Si el del Espanyol o el del Valladolid son ejemplos de mala gestión yo se lo cambio con ojos cerrados por estos," likening Valencia’s plight to historically poorly managed clubs.
The stirring draw against Deportivo Alavés encapsulated the tumultuous spirit of Valencia CF's current state, balancing spirited comeback attempts with candid critiques of its wider issues. With the clock winding down on 2023, it's clear the club faces both on-field challenges and off-field managerial crises, blending together stories of strife and hope as they stride headlong toward the new year.
