This will be the footballer that Valencia will let go in the summer

Dani Raba has gone from being one of the most promising notes of the preseason to becoming a residual player in Carlos Corberán's plans in a matter of months. His continuity at Valencia CF beyond the summer seems increasingly unlikely.

The forward was one of the few highlights in a preparation marked by a lack of goals and uncertainty in the market. He scored against Olympique de Marseille, showed flashes of quality, and took on different offensive roles, acting as an attacking midfielder or a false winger as needed by the team. Even on the first matchday of LaLiga, he provided the assist for the equalizer with a precise pass to Diego López, reinforcing the feeling that he could be important.

Nothing foreshadowed the turn that was about to come.

The turning point for Dani Raba in LaLiga

As reported by 'Superdeporte', the match at El Sadar marked a before and after in Dani Raba's season. Starting against Osasuna, he seemed established in the starting lineup after a convincing preseason and a competitive start.

However, Gayà's early dismissal forced Carlos Corberán to restructure the team. Raba was sacrificed, substituted in the 22nd minute to make way for Jesús Vázquez. That tactical decision had an impact beyond the match itself.

The player's gesture on the bench showed discontent. From then on, the relationship with the coach began to deteriorate progressively. He was only a starter once more, in the victory against Athletic Club, and since then, his prominence plummeted.

So far in 2026, he has barely played a minute in LaLiga. He came on in injury time against Rayo and the match ended almost immediately. Since then, he has faced bench roles without playing time and even matches out of the squad.

Carlos Corberán does not count on Dani Raba

Carlos Corberán's stance is clear. The Valencia CF coach has shown that he does not keep players based on hierarchy or name, but on performance and tactical fit. If a player does not fit his idea, they lose importance without hesitation.

In the winter transfer market, the possibility of a departure arose. The club was open to listening to offers, but Dani Raba chose to remain at Mestalla despite the signals. His decision was motivated by personal and professional reasons, but he accepted the sporting risk.

Since then, the coaching staff's message has been clear. The forward is not part of the competitive core, and his role is clearly secondary. In a team that needs intensity, balance, and tactical discipline, the coach believes that other options offer greater guarantees.

Direct competition and loss of confidence

One of the major obstacles for Dani Raba is the competition in the playmaker area. Lucas Beltrán has established himself as a key piece in the scheme, and his performance makes him practically undisputed.

When Beltrán is unavailable, the priority alternative has been Javi Guerra, who even occupied that position in recent matches ahead of other options. This scenario further reduces the chances for the former Leganés and Villarreal player.

At Valencia CF, they understand that the situation is hardly reversible. Confidence has eroded, and the wear and tear are evident. The bench images reflect frustration, while the coach sticks to his established plan without altering the order.

In LaLiga, where every point is crucial, the margin for experimental rotations is minimal. The team needs stability and cohesion, and Carlos Corberán prioritizes profiles that fully fit his demands.

The summer appears to be the key moment to resolve the situation. The club needs to adjust the squad and free up space for new signings, and Dani Raba emerges as one of the first pieces likely to leave.

All signs point to the forward living his last months at Mestalla before seeking a new destination that allows him to regain continuity and prominence away from Valencia CF.