How Aaron Mayol plays, Valencia academy midfielder starts against Alavés | OneFootball

Aaron Mayol was the standout surprise in Óscar Sánchez’s first starting line-up as Valencia coach, the academy midfielder starting against Alavés.

The call-up reflects Sánchez’s long-standing faith in him. According to Superdeporte, he previously promoted Mayol from Juvenil A to Mestalla during a crisis to avoid dropping into Tercera RFEF.

The young pivot adapted quickly, taking charge of midfield with striking composure for his age. A Valencian signed from Levante UD’s academy, he is a modern '6' who covers ground, positions well and wins duels.

He is secure on the ball and willing to organise play, traits he has shown both at youth level and with Mestalla. He has even filled in at right-back in emergencies.

Carlos Corberán was also impressed, bringing him up to train regularly last season ahead of older players.

Valencia renewed his contract a few months ago as he continues his development in the academy. The deal runs to 2029 with a unilateral club option for two more years, and a 15 million clause that rises to 30 if he is registered with the first team.

Source: Superdeporte

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”