Cañizares cools Valencia rest-day row after Atlético defeat and terrace chant | OneFootball

Santi Cañizares has played down the furore over Valencia’s rest days, a debate reignited by fan chants during the loss to Atlético Madrid.

Speaking on Cadena Cope’s Tiempo de Juego, the former Valencia great argued the rest-day dispute ranks low among the club’s problems and said players need time off, even if some believe there have been more breaks than usual.

During the second half at Mestalla, sections of the home support targeted the coach and squad, with one chant, “Mañana es día libre”, aimed at training plans and the team’s commitment.

The issue has been a recurring media criticism in a campaign largely limited to LaLiga, although from late October to early February Valencia played five single-leg Copa del Rey ties. Their total of official matches stands at 39.

Rest and recovery days are standard in elite sport, managed by each staff according to workloads, fitness and injuries. After the match, Hugo Duro showed his frustration in the mixed zone and declined to engage with questions about days off.

Valencia are off on Thursday, then return to training on Friday at the Ciutat Esportiva de Paterna to prepare for Sunday’s trip to San Mamés to face Athletic Club at 16:15, LaLiga matchday 35. Several squad members, including injured players, nevertheless visited the training ground on Thursday for work or treatment.

Source: Superdeporte