Nuno Santo has told Valencia that simply wanting a place in next season’s Champions League isn’t enough, it has to be earned.
Los Che are currently second in La Liga, unbeaten after seven games and trailing leaders Barcelona by two points.
Nuno took charge over the summer, leaving Rio Ave to replace Juan Antonio Pizzi and the strong start made under his leadership has brought talk of a top four place by the end of the season.
“We say we have to reach that goal but words are very easy,” he countered, according to AS.
“The important thing is the feeling and to feel it. We know we need to work every day at a club that gives us the opportunity to develop.
“I know how this team has worked, from the technical secretary and the team, and we have many people who want to be here.
“They’re hungry to play football and to be around people who have already experienced what it means to be a Valencia player.”
The Coach also gave some insights into his team’s style of play, revealing he alters aspects of Valencia’s game according to the opposition.
“The key is to go for the goal without complicating things, and to defend with organisation,” he advised.
“With an organised defence, the possibility of victory is closer and allows you to attack quicker.
“It’s wrong to force players to do something impossible. We have to be versatile depending on the opponent and be able to change even during games. Players aren’t robots.”
