José Luis Gayá, an international defender for Valencia, finds himself in a precarious position as he prepares to face Real Madrid. Once viewed as a potential club legend, Gayá's performance has dramatically declined, leading to growing doubts about his abilities among both fans and club management. His situation reflects a larger issue within the club as they struggle financially and strive to reconnect with their supporters, who have become increasingly disillusioned.

Having signed a renewal contract in 2022 shortly before missing the World Cup due to injury, Gayá was expected to be a cornerstone of the team. However, recent months have seen him playing sporadically, and his relationship with the fans has soured. The pressure is mounting not just on Gayá, but on the coach, Arbeloa, as some members within the locker room express their reservations about his leadership and the overall strategy of the team, adding to the turmoil surrounding the club.

With the team facing Real Madrid, a crucial match looms, as it could potentially be a turning point for Gayá and Valencia. The outcome may influence the future trajectory of his career, as well as that of the coach. As fans call for accountability amid disappointing performances, the club’s leadership must tackle these internal challenges while working to revitalize their standing both on and off the pitch.