Aguirre returns to Spain as Valencia boss
Javier Aguirre last coached in Spain with Real Mallorca, leading them to their first Copa del Rey final in 21 years before leaving in 2024.
Former Mexico coach Javier Aguirre is set to return to Spain to manage La Liga strugglers Valencia, the club confirmed on Wednesday. The 67-year-old previously led his national team to the 2026 World Cup last 16, where they were eliminated by England. Aguirre's last stint in Spain was with Real Mallorca, where he guided the team to their first Copa del Rey final in 21 years before leaving in 2024.
The Mexican coach will take the helm until the conclusion of the current season, with an option to extend his contract for another season. Valencia currently sits at the bottom of the table, having only collected four points from their opening seven league matches. The club, owned by Singaporean billionaire Peter Lim, recently sacked previous coach Carlos Corberan and CEO Ron Gourlay.
Valencia has not finished above ninth in La Liga since the 2018/19 season, having last won the title in 2004 under Rafael Benitez. Aguirre has a lengthy coaching history in Spain, having managed Leganes, Espanyol, Real Zaragoza, Osasuna, and Atletico Madrid. He also led Osasuna to a surprise Champions League qualification with a fourth-place finish in La Liga in 2006 before his departure for Atletico Madrid. Additionally, he has overseen the national teams of Japan and Egypt.
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Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Valencia appoint former Mexico coach Aguirre after disappointing start channelnewsasia.com
