Gayà puts Valencia’s survival ahead of contract talks

Gayà has made clear that helping Valencia escape the relegation zone comes before discussing a contract renewal. The captain assessed the club’s situation and his future at Mestalla at a ceremony where he was honoured by the Asociación del pequeño accionista. Valencia’s immediate priority is its first match at El Sardinero, and Gayà is looking for a response from the team.

The defender also welcomed Javier Aguirre’s appointment as Valencia head coach, pointing to his experience in La Liga. “Things are going very well with Aguirre. He has been very demanding in training from day one, and he also has a lot of experience,” Gayà said. He added that the coach knows the competition well, with almost 500 league matches to his name.

Gayà says he feels good personally despite the team’s current position. “The truth is, I’m feeling very well. After this start, I feel good and have positive feelings,” he said. He was also optimistic about what lies ahead: “A career has more difficult periods and easier ones, times when things go well and others when they don’t. But things are going to improve, and I’m sure we’ll look forward.”

The captain said he would like to renew his contract, but that the matter had not yet been discussed. “Of course I would, obviously. There has been no conversation so far. The most important thing now is the team, and that we are all focused on getting out of the relegation zone,” he said. His future therefore remains unresolved, while Valencia’s objectives come first for him.

Gayà also spoke about the first match at El Sardinero: “We’re looking forward to playing that first match. I’m convinced we’ll move forward; it’s a special game and we’re going all out for it.” He is also eager for the Copa del Rey meeting with Tavernes, close to his home. “My brother told me about it and I’m very happy, because it’s so close to home,” he said, adding that many Valencia supporters live in Tavernes and that it will be “a special match.”