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Valencia Preview
Overview:
A traditional power team in Spain that has been rather silent since the 2003-2004 when Valencia won their last title in the Primera Liga. Many mistakes took place since then. The main reasons were inappropriate coaches (Ranieri) and lack of motivation from the players who had already won many titles. Their style of play is based on counters and more counters. Even at home against a lower rival, they give space and strike through counterattacks. Of course this is their weapon on the road. A big disadvantage is the fact that they are not willing to "kill" their opponent scoring 2 or 3 goals, but when they take the lead they seem to relax and sit back to keep the lead. This tactic made them pay the price more than once in the past. Two seasons ago Valencia had just three away wins, but last year they improved their record winning nine away games.
Players In: Morientes (Liverpool) Gavilán (Getafe) Silva (Celta) Fiore (Fiorentina) Del Horno (Chelsea) Tavano (Empoli) Joaquin (Betis) Players Out: Carboni Fabio Aurelio (Liverpool) Rufete Ruz (Nástic) Corradi (Manchester City) Mista (Atlético) Javier Garrido Aimar (Zaragoza)Transfers assessment:
Important players came in and Joaquin is one of the best. Silva, Del Horno, Francesco Tavano and Morientes are all hungry for success and they will help out this team a lot.
Verdict:
Valencia will fight for the title, but they are lacking quality compared with the two giants Barcelona and Real Madrid. First they have to secure a Champions League position, overcoming Sevilla, Atletico and Villarreal. Position: 2-4.
