La Romareda: Home of Real Zaragoza(credit:
Wikipedia)
Valencia coach Unai Emery has received the board’s backing ahead of tonight’s trip to Real Zaragoza.
Los Che bowed out of the Champions League this week, losing 4-2 on aggregate to FC Schalke, but they have been in superb form in La Liga, winning nine of their last 12 games to sit third in the Primera Division table.
And president Manuel Llorente insists Emery will remain in charge for next season, ending speculation about the 39-year-old’s future.
Llorente said: “It was a very hard night because we had hoped to go through. We had chances, but it wasn't to be.
“We are not thinking of any other coach than Emery. We spoke to the coach and the players (after the game) to try and cheer them up.
And Valencia captain David Navarro added: “The players are the ones responsible.
“We failed in things we usually do well and the coach can't do anything about that - in no way does the defeat condition Emery's future.”
While Valencia’s most recent domestic outing ended in a 2-1 win at Mallorca, Real Zaragoza were beaten by league leaders Barcelona, 1-0, last time out.
Watch Real Zaragoza v Valencia live at 365, kicking off at 21.00 GMT.