Patxi Salinas: 'Núñez fits perfectly into Claudio's system' - Ex-Athletic coach backs Celta's latest signing
Former Celta and Athletic legend Patxi Salinas gives his verdict on Álvaro Núñez's move to Vigo, praising the defender's versatility and attacking prowess.
Former Celta and Athletic Club legend Patxi Salinas believes Álvaro Núñez is the perfect fit for Claudio Giráldez’s tactical system at Balaídos.
Salinas, who coached Núñez for nearly three years in Athletic’s youth setup, has given his former protégé a ringing endorsement following his surprise move from Elche to Galicia.
”Perfect fit” for Giráldez’s system
The current Spain Legends coach and vice-president was caught off guard by the transfer but has no doubts about Núñez’s ability to shine in Vigo.
“I was surprised by the signing because I didn’t know they were going to sign a player, let alone Álvaro,” Salinas explained. “He was at Elche and I thought he would stay there. But his footballing level doesn’t surprise me at all.”
Salinas immediately reached out to congratulate his former player: “As soon as he signed, I sent him a message telling him he was going to a brilliant city. It makes me incredibly happy to see people from Athletic come to my home, my land, my club, which is Celta.”
Versatility the key asset
According to Salinas, Núñez’s playing style makes him particularly well-suited to Giráldez’s preferred back-three system:
- Similar profile to Oscar Mingueza
- Strong offensive capabilities
- Can play as right or left-sided centre-back
- Comfortable in wing-back roles like Carreira or Mingueza
- Effective carrying the ball on either flank
“He’s a player with tremendous range,” Salinas notes. “A back four probably suits him less because he’s so attack-minded that it can sometimes come at the expense of defensive duties.”
The former defender believes Núñez’s adaptability will be a massive asset for Giráldez: “He’s a very complete footballer and still young. Plus, he’s an exceptional lad. He’ll give Claudio many excellent alternatives in any position where there are shortages.”
For Salinas, this move represents a proper opportunity for a player he clearly holds in high regard. “I hope he has luck and succeeds, because he’s a lad who deserves it,” he concluded.
If Núñez turns out half as good as Salinas suggests, Celta might’ve pulled off a right Bobby Dazzler in the transfer market.