Who’s who of Valencia academy players in pre-season | OneFootball

Valencia ended pre-season yesterday against Hércules, the final run-out before the league, after Carlos Corberán handed minutes to a string of academy players.

According to Superdeporte, 2009-born playmaker Marc Martínez debuted with the first team in the defeat to Teruel, another step in a closely watched rise after youth international caps.

On the right, Rodrigo Gamón was a standout following last season’s switch from attacker to full-back and has argued a case for the opener. Miguel Monferrer, who stepped up during Rubo Iranzo’s injury, offers the most balanced profile, while Iranzo provides the more defensive option.

At centre-back, Alejandro Panach featured again and delivered a steady display against Hércules, built on sound reading of the game. Amos Wanjala has impressed for Mestalla since his winter arrival and, despite no first-team call this summer, is pushing upwards. Iker Córdoba remains under consideration after a difficult loan, with injuries and a lack of signings potentially opening a window early on.

Striker Aimar Blázquez, the youth category’s top scorer in 2024-25, may take on greater responsibility and went close against Hércules. David Otorbi, a debutant at 16, has refined his decisions, can operate out wide or as a wing-back, and is contracted until 30 June 2028.

Teenager Jaume Durá, born in 2009, debuted and showcased flair with a nutmeg, with the coming campaign key to becoming a reserve-team pillar. Goalkeeper Vicent Abril had minutes and is seeking a move for regular games, and Raúl Jiménez could step up for Mestalla. Marcos Navarro rejoined a senior squad, featured against Hércules and impressed with his engine. Midfielder Aarón Mayol, 18 and signed from Levante, brings power and ball recovery and now has a chance to stake a medium-term claim.

Source: Superdeporte

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