Competing against the big teams a calling card for Gracia

In order to challenge at the top of the LaLiga table it is necessary to take wins over some of the biggest sides in the division. It is something that Valencia CF have proven capable of doing throughout their 101-year history, and also a calling card for new coach Javi Gracia.

In his first year in charge of Malaga CF, back in 2014/15, his team followed up on a 0-0 draw with FC Barcelona at La Rosaleda by claiming victory at the Camp Nou, 0-1.

Gracia has also claimed draws against Real Madrid on three occasions, doing so once at the Santiago Bernabéu as well as at El Sadar and La Rosaleda when at CA Osasuna and Malaga, respectively. In matches with Atletico Madrid, his sides have emerged victorious on twice and drawn once in a total of six games.
The trend has continued overseas, even with a team boasting a relatively small budget. When at the helm of Watford FC, his first home game at Vicarage Road ended 4-1 against Premier League giants Chelsea.

His greatest success to date has been reaching the FA Cup final, losing to Manchester City at the final hurdle but having beaten Southampton, Woking FC, Newcastle United, QPR, Crystal Palace and Wolves along the way to Wembley.

In England his teams also bested Tottenham (2-1), Leicester City (2-1) and Everton (twice). Now he will be attempting to best LaLiga's big names once more, as VCF coach.