Behind the Game: Celta Vigo vs. Valencia CF

A reencounter with Santi Mina

The game at Balaídos offers the chance for Valencia CF players to catch up with a familiar face. Celta Vigo striker Santi Mina, who rejoined the Galician outfit this summer from Valencia CF, is close friends with many of the squad. VCF goalkeeper Jaume Domenech helped him adapt to life at Mestalla, and the pair still speak three or four times a week by phone.

Fran Escribá’s praise for Valencia CF and Parejo

Fran Escribá had kind words for Valencia CF and captain Dani Parejo in his pre-match press conference on Friday. The Celta coach -who has history at Valencia CF- warned of the importance of ‘controlling’ Parejo and said that “any lost ball in the midfield, whether it be collected by him or if they get it to him quickly, will turn into a dangerous chance for them. Parejo has the ability to analyse football very quickly, and ahead of him VCF have players who understand that well. He is a very difficult player to replace, because he is absolutely decisive.”

Celta’s 96th anniversary

Celta celebrated their 96th anniversary on August 23rd. The club came about as a result of a fusion between Real Fortuna and Real Vigo Sporting Club, two teams from the same city. Curiously, rather than their now-customary blue shirts, Real Club Celta de Vigo initially wore red shirts, black shorts and blue socks.

Jorge Sáenz available to play for Celta

Valencia CF loaned out Jorge Sáenz to Celta Vigo this summer, but the deal did not include a condition preventing him from playing against his parent club. Should he feature, it would be his LaLiga debut.

Marcelino’s excellent record at Balaídos

Marcelino García Toral has never lost at Balaídos as a coach. In six visits to Vigo, he has taken three wins and three draws. Since taking charge at Valencia CF, he has drawn one game and won one -the most recent encounter earlier this year.