Valencia boss Javier Aguirre vows Mestalla fortress after Anthony Gordon apology

Javier Aguirre has apologised to Barcelona winger Anthony Gordon for what he described as a “foolish” incident during the 2026 World Cup, as he began his new role as Valencia head coach.

The Mexican was officially appointed by Valencia until 30 June 2027, with the option of extending his contract for an additional season if he guides the club into the Europa League.

Aguirre replaces Carlos Corberan after Valencia’s disappointing start to the campaign, and has been tasked with restoring the club’s status. Speaking at his official presentation, the 67-year-old explained why he had accepted the challenge.

“You cannot say no to Valencia,” he said. “It is a historic club in La Liga and in football generally, with wonderful supporters. I have come here before as an opponent, and it is frightening.”

Aguirre also set out his immediate ambition for the club’s home ground, Mestalla.

“I want Mestalla to become an impregnable fortress and an intimidating stadium for opponents, so the team can return to its natural position,” he added.

The former Mexico manager was then asked about his confrontation with Gordon during England’s 3-2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup last-16 tie in 2026.

Footage widely shared online showed Aguirre approaching Gordon and jokingly saying: “Damn you.” Gordon, who now plays for Barcelona, later said he had not regarded the comment as an insult.

Aguirre offered an unreserved explanation for the exchange and accepted that his behaviour had been ill-judged.

“It was a foolish thing to do, an impulsive act. It was simply an idea that came into my head amid the atmosphere and excitement of the World Cup,” he said.

The new Valencia manager insisted he wanted to draw a line under the episode.

“These things happen in football, and I will not talk about it at length,” he added.

He also made light of the incident by saying he would welcome Gordon warmly if they met again and might ask the England winger to sign a photograph of the moment.

“There is a very nice picture of what happened between us,” Aguirre said with a smile. “Perhaps I will ask him to sign it for me – for my children, you know. Yes, it really is a beautiful picture. And, by the way, the man speaks Spanish fluently.”

The pair are not expected to meet on the pitch until Barcelona visit Valencia on 31 January next year. That fixture at Mestalla is set to provide the first opportunity for an indirect reconciliation between Aguirre and Gordon.