Quique Sánchez Flores recalls Valencia as he takes Alavés job and faces Mestalla debut | OneFootball

Quique Sánchez Flores, long linked with Valencia CF, has been unveiled by Deportivo Alavés and is set to open his tenure at Mestalla, a ground he still considers home. He described the occasion as something special.

According to Superdeporte, he has signed until 2028 after Chacho Coudet left for River Plate, and his initial aim is to keep Alavés in the top flight.

Sánchez Flores enjoyed his finest playing years at Mestalla. His coaching spell there is often viewed as unfinished after he was dismissed with the team near the top, a decision followed by damaging consequences.

Since then, his name has regularly surfaced whenever Valencia have changed coach, at times amid negotiations, yet a return never materialised as he took posts elsewhere.

At his presentation, he said starting in Valencia would be special and that he retains strong affection for the supporters from his time as player and coach.

Outlining his goals at Mendizorroza, he spoke of staying up without suffering and, if possible, aspiring to more. He said the club's respect for his extended silence impressed him, and its style and solidity appeal to him. He added that he follows Alavés passionately whether at the ground or watching on television.

Source: Superdeporte