Valencia manager, Albert Celades, was forced to attend the club’s Champions League press conference without any of his players, after they chose to boycott it because of the sacking of their previous coach.
The LaLiga side fired Marcelino last week, despite the Brazilian leading the club to the Copa Del Rey trophy and Champions League qualification last season.
Celedes was installed into the role for last weekend’s league match against Barcelona, which the club lost 5-2.
Ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League opener against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, Celades admitted the player boycott of media wasn’t “ideal”.
“Obviously it’s not an ideal situation but it’s the players’ decision, really. I don’t have much more to say about that.
“There isn’t anything I can do about it.
“I speak to the players every day. They took this decision but there is always dialogue. The reaction I’ve had has been very good and I’m sure it will continue to improve.
“The spirit is very good. (Tuesday) is the start of the best club competition in Europe and that is ample motivation for the players to give their best.
“They want to play, taste the atmosphere. and be in the starting XI. No-one wants to miss out and that, for me, is the most important thing,” Celades said.
