José Copete takes major step towards Valencia return | OneFootball

José Copete has taken a major step in his comeback, the Valencia centre-back completed part of Saturday's session with the group seven months after injury. He is not ready yet, aiming to be available after the international break.

According to Superdeporte, Valencia will proceed cautiously as Copete gradually increases workload and involvement. It is not a full return, but significant for a player last seen on 22 February against Villarreal.

Scans showed a meniscal injury in his left knee and Valencia confirmed he needed surgery. The first operation in March left open a late-season comeback if recovery allowed.

Complications then emerged. An infection in the area forced a second procedure in April. That setback ruled out a return last season, pre-season and the start of this campaign.

After the season Copete posted on social media, saying there were circumstances about his injury he would address later. He continued part of his rehab at a private Navarra clinic, unhappy with progress.

In September Pedro López Mateu left as head of medical and Antonio Giner returned to lead the department.

His comeback would also hand Javier Aguirre a familiar defender from their time together at Mallorca, where Copete played 58 games. That should ease adaptation to the new coach's demands.

Patience guides the plan. Copete must regain rhythm and confidence, but rejoining team training is a giant stride. If the knee responds to rising loads, the intention is for him to be in the frame after the break.

Source: Superdeporte

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