Valencia CF clarify match fixing stance, contract renewal plans and transfer strategies

Besides his review of the 2018/19 season, Valencia CF director general Mateu Alemany also addressed several matters on the sporting and legal sides of the club, including the regrettable match fixing scandal that has hit Spanish football this week. VCF released a statement on the subject on Tuesday, and Alemany reiterated the club's stance on unfounded allegations in the media attempting to link the club to 'Operation Oikos'.

"I would like to say what Valencia CF's position is: I am unaware of these situations because Valencia CF are completely separate from this, and the only thing that we can say now is that, beyond those insinuations, Valencia CF will take legal action against any person or media outlet who accuse the club of any type of illegal activity, to clarify the matter.

"These cases are completely separate from us. The statement from the LFP, which in general seems to have been left out, states the limits of the actions, which do not affect our club, so those accusations seemingly come from an interest in sensationalism or diverting attention. The only thing that we can do, as a club not involved in this matter, is refer to the statement from the LFP. It is the only relevant statement on the subject; the rest is information that we are unaware of.

"It is clear that the subject of betting is a serious one, and we have to stress that footballers, directors and coaches cannot bet. We support this fight against illegal gambling."

Turning to the sporting side, Alemany also fielded questions about the immediate futures of specific players.

Rodrigo
"I am aware of interest, and not only in Rodrigo but also for other players. There has not been a formal offer, but there have been enquiries about the situations for various players. Rodrigo is a very important player for Valencia CF. As for his Instagram post, making public his gratitude to the fans, I thought it was magnificent and I don't believe it has anything to do with a departure. There is nothing different about his situation compared to that of the rest of his teammates."

"I know that there are teams who are interested, because he is a very important player with great quality, and there aren't many players of his level on the market. We are calm about things and so is the player; he is very happy at Valencia CF and was one of the leaders in the celebrations. He is a captain and shows his love for the club. He is a transcendent player, we are very happy with him and he is very happy at Valencia CF."

No Rodrigo request to leave
"There has been nothing like that. It's obvious that the player saying that they will play where they want holds a lot of weight. We want players who are committed and happy to play for Valencia CF. In the hypothetical scenario of a big offer, and only if the player wants to leave, we will evaluate the terms and see if they satisfy Valencia CF. If a club is interested in one of our players, they know the clause. We're in a good position and it's fundamental to end the financial year without losses, and I've always explained the effect that sales have on Financial Fair Play. The budget for next year will be good, we're calm about things, and we will see what happens in the market."

A renewal for Marcelino
"It's clear that the club are happy with our coach. He has just over a year left on his contract and we will see when the moment comes. It isn't my concern, and besides contracts our relationship with him is extraordinary. Trust, professional relationships and work are important to me."

Renewals for Garay and Mina
"They are two very important players for the team, and even with contracts in place we have to check this situation. I don't need to speak to the coach about them, as I am aware of his evaluation of them."

Kang In
"He's playing in the Under-20s World Cup at the moment. We are convinced that he is going to be a very important player; he is different and has spectacular quality. He will come back after the Under-20s World Cup and there is still no decision made about him. Young talents progress by playing a lot of minutes, so we have to sit down with him and with the coach to see what his place will be. Even though he hasn't played much this year, he's come into a professional dressing room of the highest demands. We need to take the best decision for his sporting development."

Levante UD interest in Ruben Vezo
"I am aware that they have spoken to Ruben's agent to find out his willingness to join. There is interesst. We will talk about this situation. We are delighted to help Levante UD, and that he helped the team to achieve survival. It's very good for the city."