Levante captain stokes derby flames with Mestalla memory jibe
Pablo Martínez reminds Valencia that Levante haven't forgotten Hugo Duro's antics ahead of crucial local derby clash at Ciutat de València.
Levante’s skipper Pablo Martínez has turned up the heat ahead of the Valencia derby, making it crystal clear that the Frogs haven’t forgotten what happened during their last encounter at Mestalla.
Derby day memories still raw
Speaking to the press on Thursday, Martínez didn’t mince his words when asked about Hugo Duro’s controversial gestures during the previous derby:
“Of course we remember. Nobody here has forgotten anything. Not the statements, not the gestures, nothing of the sort,” the Levante captain declared, before quickly pivoting to emphasize they need to focus on their own game rather than getting drawn into unnecessary confrontations.
”A final for us”
The midfield general described Sunday’s clash as “one of the most important matches of the year” and made no bones about what it means to the Levante faithful:
- First home derby for Martínez who’s “excited” about the prospect
- Hopes to “gift the fans a victory against their biggest rivals”
- Admitted the team still feels the sting from not getting more from the away fixture at Mestalla
Personal renaissance under Castro
Martínez appears to be enjoying something of a career renaissance under manager Luís Castro, thriving in a central midfield role that allows him to impact both boxes.
“Playing in the middle benefits me. It’s a position where I feel very comfortable,” explained the captain, who believes he’s currently experiencing one of the best periods of his career.
“The manager gives me that confidence and we’re working well. His ideas have resonated in the dressing room and it’s showing in the results.”
Contract situation on hold
Despite his contract expiring in just four months, Martínez brushed off questions about his future, insisting that “right now that’s the least important thing” and that the club’s stability and achieving their objectives take precedence.
With the derby just days away, it’s clear the Valencian rivalry remains as fiery as ever. Expect sparks to fly when these two sides meet at the Ciutat de València on Sunday.