Aguirre warns before facing Tavernes: "You have everything to lose and gain"

Aguirre warns Valencia must treat Copa del Rey with maximum seriousness ahead of Wednesday's tie against lower-league Tavernes at Mestalla.

Javier Aguirre views the Copa del Rey as an opportunity to shift Valencia's momentum after a poor start to the league season. Speaking ahead of Wednesday's first-round tie against Tavernes at Mestalla, the Mexican manager emphasized that the cup competition is never a distraction and must be approached with full commitment, as his team has everything to lose and everything to gain against an opponent for whom it will be a celebration.

Aguirre acknowledged Valencia's poor numbers in La Liga and stressed the importance of improving quickly. "The cup comes at a good time for us to give life to the players I have, keep everyone in shape and movement," he said. He warned his squad against underestimating the lower-league side, insisting they will field their strongest possible team and play with maximum seriousness. "If you relax and underestimate the rival you can get a surprise. You have everything to lose and gain; they have everything to gain and nothing to lose," he cautioned.

Aguirre confirmed there will be changes to the starting eleven and indicated academy players will get minutes. He remained coy about the goalkeeper position, saying all three options are in contention. The manager also revealed he carries special motivation in the cup after losing two finals with Mallorca and Osasuna, teams he felt were underdogs on paper.