We're never far from a circus at the Mestalla. The latest one went from 'murmurs of dissatisfaction' to 'something needs to be done' on Wednesday night, as Valencia became the first side to lose to La Liga's bottom club Almeria. To make matters worse, they lost at home and they lost after taking the lead through a Jonas penalty – but what is it that has to be done?
It's no secret that it's been a difficult 10 years for Los Che following the mismanagement of previous President Juan Soler. From being statistically Europe's third best club in 2004 – following two Primera Division titles and two European Cup Final appearances – they find themselves not just struggling to be Spain's fourth best club, but on a financial level too.
At one point their debt, primarily racked up by Soler, stood at €550m. New President Amadeo Salvo stated earlier this season that this figure had slipped below €300m – in no small part down to the sales of David Villa, David Silva, Juan Mata, Jordi Alba and Roberto Soldado in recent years. Salvo also confirmed that the club were close to finalising a deal which would see the club agree to pay back that debt over the following 18 years.
So while Salvo looks to be a President doing the right things for once, is there anyone to blame for Valencia's hot and cold form?
Criticisms first abounded this season after the 3-0 defeat at home to Swansea in the Europa League. Miroslav Djukic, who became the club's Coach in the summer, was backed by his President in the aftermath, with Salvo saying the Serbian would remain in control until the end of the season at least. His confidence was rewarded by a run of wins, but, fast forward a few more weeks, now there is another crisis.
Defeat to Almeria was Valencia's third loss on the bounce in the League. Press speculation in the city suggested Djukic would be gone by Friday – would Salvo go back on his word? It doesn't seem he's ready to do so just yet and, considering the club's desperate need for stability, the sensible option would be to leave Djukic in charge.
Which brings us round to Braulio Vazquez, Los Che's sporting director and supposedly chief among those trying to convince Salvo to part with Djukic. Except it may be his job, not Djukic's, which is under fire. The suggestion has been that Braulio could be pushed out, with former player Rufete, who is currently working with the club's youth teams, promoted into his role.
What sort of effect that would have on the short-term is questionable, but Valencia are beyond looking at life in the immediate future. Like with the restructuring of their debt, which Salvo appears to be doing well, they need a strategy to ensure they move forward sensibly on the pitch – a 'project' if you'll excuse the cliche.
Rufete is unlikely to bring immediate changes on the pitch, but he'd hopefully restore harmony at the top level of the football club. Salvo can't have a sporting director and a Coach who don't get on and, to lead the club back into the Champions League, where the money is, he needs parity between those two roles. The rest may then be able to fall into place at last.
