Valencia has dismissed head coach Ruben Baraja after a challenging start to the 2023-24 La Liga season, where the club secured only two victories in 17 matches. Baraja, a former club legend who played for Valencia between 2000 and 2010, returned to the club in February 2023 to take on the managerial role.
Struggles on the Sidelines
Despite helping Valencia avoid relegation in the 2022-23 season, securing survival by just two points, Baraja struggled to turn things around in the current campaign. Last season, he guided the team to a ninth-place finish, but with Valencia now sitting in 19th place, four points adrift from safety, the club made the difficult decision to part ways with the 49-year-old coach.
In a statement, the club acknowledged Baraja as “one of the greatest legends” in their history, recognizing his contributions both as a player and as a coach. The club added that while the decision was tough, they believed it was necessary due to the team’s current poor form.
Baraja’s Legacy
As a player, Baraja enjoyed significant success with Valencia, winning five trophies over his 10-year spell at the club, including two La Liga titles and a UEFA Cup. However, his managerial career has been more mixed, with stints at Elche, Rayo Vallecano, Sporting Gijon, Tenerife, and Zaragoza.
His final match as Valencia’s head coach saw the team draw 2-2 with Alaves, which briefly lifted them off the bottom of the La Liga table.
Next Steps for Valencia
Valencia’s next La Liga match is scheduled for January 3, when they will face reigning champions Real Madrid. The club will be hoping to find a new manager to help steady the ship and avoid relegation.
