Valencia Club de Fútbol returned to the spotlight in the final preseason match when Arnaut Danjuma, freshly recovered from back troubles, scored the winning goal against Stoke City at Bet 365 Stadium. The Dutch striker, who arrived from Villarreal in the summer, celebrated the strike by pointing at Javi Guerra and calling him a "superstar". The score settled at 1-1, with a Monferrer own‑goal leveling the game in the second half.
How did the match unfold?
The game started slowly with few fans, but Valencia took the lead in the 12th minute. Javi Guerra, after a perfect wall, left Danjuma unmarked a few meters from the penalty spot. The striker received the ball, controlled it with a first‑touch strike and shot without a chance for the keeper. The goal marked Danjuma's third preseason tally, although the club treated it as a closed‑door exercise against Derby County.
What role will Danjuma play this season?
Following Sadiq's injury, coach Carlos Corberán suggested Danjuma operate as a centre‑forward, linking up with Sato and Guerra up front. The absence of Sadiq and Danjuma's versatility could earn him more minutes, provided he maintains his level and the coach's trust. Corberán has not ruled out looking for another destination for the striker, but for now the Dutchman appears to stay in the project.
What does the result mean for preparation?
The draw against Stoke City, an English side with the arrival of full‑backs like Manhoef, displayed a more contemplative Valencia and a defence that needs fine‑tuning. Monferrer's own‑goal, after a solid first half, highlighted the need for greater focus in the closing minutes. Overall, the match served to test different attacking combos and strengthen squad cohesion.
Current club context
Valencia Club de Fútbol finished the 2025 season in 14th place in La Liga with 35 points, recording 9 wins, 8 draws and 14 losses from 31 games, and a recent form of LLWLW. That campaign saw the team score 34 goals and concede 46, leaving a -12 goal difference. The club now sits 44 points behind leaders Barcelona, underscoring the importance of tactical tweaks before the new season kicks off.
Match details
The fixture took place before 6,803 spectators at Bet 365 Stadium. English referee Tom Reeves handed yellow cards to Lawal and Jesús Vázquez at the 85th minute. Valencia's line‑up featured Dimitrievski in goal, a back line of Monferrer, Tárrega, De Haas and Gayá, and a midfield of Rioja, Guido, Ugrinic and Sato, with Guerra and Danjuma leading the attack.
