Valencia have announced the appointment of Rubén Baraja as their new head coach.
Baraja replaces Gennaro Gattuso, who recently agreed to leave the club currently 18th in the La Liga table.
Baraja, 47, played at the Mestalla for a decade between 2000 and 2010.
The have released the following statement:
“Valencia CF have reached an agreement to appoint Rubén Baraja as Valencia CF’s first team coach.
“Rubén Baraja (11/07/1975) takes charge of the first team after coaching Real Zaragoza, CD Tenerife, Real Sporting de Gijón, Rayo Vallecano and Elche CF, in addition to his outstanding experience as coach of the Juvenil A División de Honor of the VCF Academy.
“Pipo’, one of the most decorated and illustrious players in the history of Valencia CF, knows the idiosyncrasies of the Club and returns home to contribute with his professionalism and commitment as a coach after forging his legendary figure in the 2000s by helping to win two LaLiga titles, a UEFA Cup, a European Super Cup and a Copa del Rey.
“In the coming days he will take charge of the team at the Ciutat Esportiva de Paterna and his coaching staff will include another Valencia CF legend, Carlos Marchena.
“Valencia CF would like to publicly thank Voro González for his involvement and commitment during his time as first team coach.”
OFFICIAL STATEMENT | RUBÉN BARAJA
Welcome, Baraja!!
➡️https://t.co/04N0OkO2Mr#VCFDNA pic.twitter.com/p4xyhm9Vsi
— Valencia CF (@valenciacf_en) February 14, 2023
The former midfielder’s first game in charge of Los Che will be against fellow strugglers Getafe on 20 February.