Valencia have announced that they have extended the contract of Coach Nuno Santo until 2018.
The former Rio Ave trainer succeeded Juan Antonio Pizzi in July but only signed a deal until the end of the season.
However, he has led Los Che to the upper echelons of La Liga in his first season at the helm, with the side just a point off the Champions League places.
“I’m happy and conscious of the responsibility we have as the coaching staff of this club. I’m honoured to be the Coach of Valencia, it’s a pleasure and I’m eternally grateful,” he told Valencia’s official website.
“We’ve spoken about the project, the growth of the team and a new squad, and desire to continue for another three years is shared by all of us. The time for negotiations was planned by the club.
“Nothing at this club is decided by one person. We have the ability to review and discuss things together, and it’ll remain that way forever.
“The renewal doesn’t change any of our objectives. We want to continue in the Copa del Rey and we have a target [the Champions League] which keeps us awake and doesn’t let us relax.”
Nuno then confirmed that attacking midfielder Carles Gil was on the verge of joining Aston Villa.
“Although it’s not yet official, because it’s still pending review, I wish Carles well and thank him for everything he’s done for us. I admire his quality,” he added.
“There’s no doubt that we must now seek a suitable replacement, but we won’t rush into doing so.
“In time we have to adjust the balance of the squad. The arrival of a player will never be a hasty process, but a thoughtful one.”
