[Pat Murphy]

Emery To Become Valencia Coach

Unai Emery has agreed to become the new coach of Valencia after being given the guarantees of stability that he sought and will be presented at a press conference in the next few days.

The Almería trainer will make the move after meeting with high level officials from los Ché to ensure that there would be no major changes at the club this summer.

Valencia have been seeking a new coach since Ronald Koeman was sacked in April and Voro took over on a temporary basis until the end of the season and Almeria have wished him the best.

Emery's impressive campaign in charge of Almería, after winning promotion with them last term, has seen him win many admirers in both Spain and abroad and the club president, Alfonso García, respected his decision.

"We wish the best to Unai," he said. "He was very comfortable here, but he was attracted by the size and history of Valencia and we know it is a great opportunity for him."

After a season of turmoil at Mestalla, the 36-year-old coach asked to hold talks with former president Juan Soler, current president Agustín Morera, director of communications, Jesús Wolstein and sporting director Juan Sánchez.

The lengthy meeting was concluded after Emery was assured that only one major player from the squad may have to be sold rather than the mass clear-out the media had predicted.

All those present assured the trainer that there would be no repeat of the behind the scenes turmoil and that the club were going to maintain a competitive squad.

Valencia's financial problems had led to speculation that such star names as David Villa and David Silva would have to be sold off in order to balance the books.

Emery's appointment is in line with Valencia's recent tradition of attracting up-and-coming young Spanish coaches as he follows in the footsteps of Rafa Benítez and Quique Sánchez Flores.

After informing Almería president of his decision late on Wednesday evening, Emery will hold his final training session on Thursday and say goodbye to the players at the club.

Lucas Brown, Goal.com

Goal.com - Valencia - Emery To Become Valencia Coach


Unai Emery is a good option. He's a real hard worker, he makes players stay behind to practice every little detail until they've got it right and it paid off this season with Almeria.