Valencia's new boys talk ambition: Guido and Unai ready to lift Los Che
Valencia's January reinforcements Guido Rodriguez and Unai Núñez speak about their ambitions at Mestalla, with both players eyeing an upward trajectory for the club.
Two experienced campaigners arrive at Mestalla with a clear mission to help Valencia climb the table, as both express their desire to “look upwards” rather than down.
Fresh faces with familiar foes ahead
Talk about timing! Both Guido Rodriguez and Unai Núñez (whose transfer paperwork is being processed) could make their debuts this weekend against Betis. In a twist of fate, Valencia’s next two fixtures are against Betis and Athletic Club - the very clubs these new signings recently departed.
The pair were unveiled at Mestalla, and both lads showed proper ambition in their first media appearances.
Guido: Six months… or more?
The Argentine midfielder was straightforward about his contract situation but hinted at longer-term ambitions:
“The paperwork says six months, but I’d love to do well and stay longer,” Rodriguez explained.
He revealed that despite other offers, Valencia was always his preferred destination for a La Liga return. The World Cup winner also hasn’t given up on international ambitions, acknowledging that good performances at Valencia could put him back in contention for Argentina’s 2026 World Cup squad.
Valencia’s position: Glass half full
Both players showed refreshing optimism about Valencia’s current league position:
- Currently just two points above relegation zone
- But only four points away from higher positions
- “The club must work to look upwards” - Rodriguez
Guido emphasized Valencia’s historical significance despite current struggles: “The image Valencia gives is of a historic club that isn’t in its best moment, but it doesn’t stop being an attractive club for players.”
Unai ready for action
The Basque defender arrives from Hellas Verona, where he was a regular starter. “I’m physically very fit and ready to play whenever the manager decides,” Núñez stated.
On choosing Valencia: “The opportunity arose and it was the perfect time to return to a club like Valencia. Coming back to La Liga influenced my decision.”
Núñez also addressed Valencia’s defensive issues after watching their recent match against Espanyol: “The goals conceded were bad luck. I see the team working well, and logically, the fewer goals we concede, the more points we’ll collect.”
Looking upwards
The common theme from both signings was clear - Valencia might be struggling, but their focus is on climbing the table, not avoiding relegation.
“I prefer looking upwards rather than downwards,” said Núñez, echoing Rodriguez’s sentiments about Valencia’s potential to change their fortunes.
With these two proper players now on board, Valencia fans will hope their experience can help steady the ship and start sailing in the right direction.