Aguirre unloads Valencia's star signing

Arnau Martínez, 23-year-old right-back, is the focus of the latest news from Valencia CF as he has disappeared from the lineups just two months after arriving from Girona. The club paid 5 million euros fixed plus one in variables for his signing, but Pablo Maffeo has taken over the starting position since Javier Aguirre took over as coach at Mestalla.

The Catalan defender, who signed until June 2031, was one of the sporting director's bets for the 2026/2027 season. However, his performance in the early matchdays has not completely convinced, currently placing him behind Maffeo in the preferences of the Mexican coach.

The situation contrasts with the economic effort made during the summer, when Valencia made his signing a priority and negotiated with Girona for weeks to close the transfer.

💬 @arnaueti_4: “I can bring a lot to Valencia CF, I’m very excited” 🦇 Arnau Martínez at his presentation as a Valencia CF player. 🔗 https://t.co/89POn9mKSc #WelcomeArnau https://t.co/bWCYKXI2wx

— Valencia CF (@valenciacf_en) August 27, 2026

Arnau Martínez, from priority signing to substitute at Mestalla

The arrival of Arnau Martínez was a request from Carlos Corberán, who deemed it necessary to incorporate an experienced right-back in La Liga. The coach also valued his ability to play as a center-back in a back three.

Girona had a release clause of 8 million euros, but eventually agreed to a deal of 5 million fixed, one in variables, and 10% of a future sale. The agreement made Martínez the most expensive signing of Valencia's summer transfer window. Valencia closes Arnau Martínez's signing.

The right-back came with the intention of establishing himself as a starter, but his initial performances showed difficulties in adaptation. Corberán even used him on both the right side and at the center of the defense, but he failed to firmly establish himself.

The change in coach has not improved his situation. Javier Aguirre has kept his faith in Maffeo, who arrived on loan from Olympiacos during the same transfer window and has delivered performances that allow him to retain his position.

Javier Aguirre opts for Pablo Maffeo at right-back

The relationship between Javier Aguirre and Pablo Maffeo explains part of the new hierarchies. They previously coincided at Mallorca, where the Mexican coach had already used the full-back as one of his regular players.

Maffeo has started in the recent matches against Athletic Club and Racing, solidifying his place in the starting eleven. His defensive performance and involvement in attack have reinforced the coach's decision.

Meanwhile, Arnau Martínez will have to regain ground. The club is also working with the player to help him manage the pressure generated by his signing and the challenges encountered in his initial appearances at Mestalla.

Competition is particularly crucial as Valencia CF needs to improve its results in LaLiga. Aguirre is prioritizing players who are familiar with his demands and offer continuity in a defense that has undergone changes since his arrival.

Arnau Martínez's future depends on regaining confidence

Currently, there is no information about a possible departure of the full-back during the winter transfer window. His contract until 2031 and the investment made suggest that the situation should be interpreted as a loss of sporting prominence, not as an open exit operation.

In Spain, Martínez had already proved his ability to compete in La Liga during his time at Girona. His versatility still provides him with options to play minutes, especially if Aguirre needs to modify the defensive system.

The upcoming matches will determine his immediate situation. Arnau Martínez will have to seize the opportunities he gets to compete with Maffeo and convince the coach that he deserves to reclaim a spot in Valencia's starting eleven.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Aguirre se carga al fichaje estrella del Valencia