Rioja criticises Valencia dressing room after Riazor embarrassment | OneFootball

Valencia left Riazor badly shaken after losing to Deportivo La Coruña, prompting fierce self-criticism in the dressing room. According to Superdeporte, Luis Rioja and Stole Dimitrievski were among the few to speak publicly.

Carlos Corberán’s side were slow out of the blocks again and their performance raised concerns about application rather than tactics. Rioja branded the defeat unacceptable and said the team lacked the right attitude, only reacting after setbacks.

He argued tactical tweaks were not the issue, insisting the game demanded pride, full commitment and leaving everything on the pitch, which he felt was missing. He accepted his share of responsibility.

The winger also urged Valencia to start matches with greater aggression and absolute focus, warning that anything less than full intensity would not beat anyone.

Dimitrievski echoed the message, admitting the team fell short at Riazor and calling for pride from every player, first to last, and for an immediate response.

Rioja then reflected on recent seasons at Mestalla, noting two poor starts followed by two strong finishes, which he believes have held the team back from being more competitive. Barcelona visit next, and Valencia will have to spring a surprise at home.

Source: Superdeporte

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