Unai Emery Revitalizes Valencia

It was only a few months ago that Valencia were a laughing subject in La Liga. Early last season, with the team sitting fourth from the top of the standings, club president Juan Soler fired coach Quique Sanchez Flores.

The results weren't satisfactory, and the events that followed only brought more depression. Under new manager Ronald Koeman, Valencia were battling to keep away from regulation for much of the season.

Financial issues arised as well, and David Villa, David Silva, and Joaquin were all believed to be on their way out. New club president Vincente Soriano managed to hang on to these key players.

It still brought up a massive challenge for new coach Unai Emery entering this season with Los Che.

The 46-year-old led Almeria to an eighth-place finish last season, and has thrived once again in his new home.

David Villa continues to pounce on every opportunity up front, whether it be for club or country. Juan Mata has been a pleasant surprise with six goals of his own, only trailing Villa.

Self-confidence which was hard to spot in the previous campaign, seems to have returned to the Spanish club.

Emery is being proclaimed the new Rafa Benitez having tactics and methods which resemble that of the Liverpool coach. Benitez led Valenica to two league titles and the UEFA Cup during a three-year stint.

Expectations of similar success could be necessary, and Emery should be up to the challenge. The Spanish club has a date with Dynamo Kiev in the first knockout phase of the UEFA Cup.

Currently sitting in fourth place in La Liga (coincidentally), there appear to be no motions for a coaching change in Valencia for the time being.

Why would there be?