Valencia Must Cut Gap Behind Barcelona & Real Madrid - David Albelda

Valencia veteran David Albelda insists that one of the club’s primary objectives for the season ahead should be to reduce the points gap between themselves and the division’s big two, Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Los Che finished third last season but were a full 25 points behind Madrid in second and 28 points behind eventual champions Barcelona, and Albelda, who has been at the club for 15 years, believes it is important to reduce this deficit.

He commented: “On paper, it is clear that there are those who have no financial problems for the amounts they invest in improving their squads. However, the loss of [David] Villa and [David] Silva will not disrupt the objectives of our club.

“We must be cautious, and not think we will win everything. One of the objectives will be to cut the gap to Barcelona and Real Madrid in the standings.”

Albelda also remarked on the plentiful additions at the Mestalla during the summer, adding that he hoped the new-look strike force of Aritz Aduriz and Roberto Soldado can play well together, and also the return of Vicente, who has impressed so far in friendlies.

He said: “They are attackers that can combine well, and the most important thing is to have good movement from our front players, including [Juan] Mata, Pablo and Joaquin.

“Vicente has been working well, and I expect that without injuries he will be another asset which will improve the potential of Valencia.”