Valencia manager Javier Aguirre has firmly defended his squad following a 3-0 La Liga defeat to Real Madrid, directly addressing Jose Mourinho’s post-match comments regarding the gap in quality between the two clubs. The Portuguese manager had previously suggested that his side possessed a considerably stronger roster, a remark that sparked debate about the competitive balance in Spanish football. Aguirre, speaking ahead of Valencia’s Copa del Rey match against Tavernes de la Valldigna, clarified the nature of their interaction, insisting that the exchange was a professional footballing observation rather than a personal slight.
Mexican coach defends squad depth and downplays post-match exchange with Portuguese rival.
The Mexican coach detailed the specific conversation that took place after the final whistle at Mestalla, emphasizing his mutual respect for Mourinho. “He didn’t say ‘much better’. He told me to stay calm because his players were better,” Aguirre explained. He noted that he accepted the assessment, congratulated his counterpart, and returned to the dressing room without taking the comments personally. By framing the dialogue as a candid acknowledgment of performance levels, Aguirre aimed to shift focus away from the lopsided scoreline and toward the ongoing development of his team.
Despite the heavy loss, Aguirre remains confident in the potential of his current roster, rejecting the narrative that Valencia is out of its depth. “I think I have some very good players; otherwise, I wouldn’t be here,” he stated, signaling his commitment to the project and his belief in the squad’s ability to compete. This response serves as a strategic move to maintain morale within the dressing room while publicly acknowledging the superior form of Real Madrid, ensuring that the team remains focused on upcoming fixtures rather than dwelling on the recent setback.
Source: Yahoo Sports
