Valencia is set to host Real Madrid at Mestalla Stadium on January 3, 2025, in a rescheduled La Liga fixture. The match was initially postponed due to severe floods in the Valencia region in November 2024.
Valencia, currently 19th in the league with 12 points, recently appointed Carlos Corberán as head coach during the winter break. Corberán, formerly of West Bromwich Albion, faces a challenging debut against the defending champions. The team will be without key players due to injuries, including José Gayà , Mouctar Diakhaby, and Thierry Correia.
Real Madrid, trailing Atlético Madrid by one point, aims to seize the top spot with a victory. Manager Carlo Ancelotti anticipates a competitive title race, suggesting that fewer than 90 points might secure the championship this season. The squad sees the return of VinÃcius Júnior after suspension, bolstering their attacking options. However, defenders Dani Carvajal and Éder Militão remain sidelined due to injuries.
Historically, Real Madrid has found Mestalla a challenging venue, securing only two victories in their last ten visits. The upcoming match offers them an opportunity to temporarily lead the league standings. Ancelotti emphasized the importance of starting the year strongly and is preparing for a demanding game against a potentially revitalized Valencia under new management.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 9:00 PM local time and will be broadcast live on Movistar Plus+. Fans can also follow live updates and coverage on various sports news platforms.
