Spot-kick from Soler sees 10-man Valencia edge past LaLiga newboys Girona
After a disappointing campaign in which they finished in ninth place, Valencia once again decided it was time for a change of approach and replaced Jose Bordalas with Gennaro Gattuso - their seventh manager in just five years.
This appeared to have the desired effect as the hosts came out of the blocks with the same menacing intent that was typical of the Italian legend throughout his playing days.
Girona would not be intimidated during the frantic early stages, however, and even threatened to shock the home crowd when Juanpe’s header flashed across goal.
In a melting Mestalla, there was a shining light for the hosts in the form of Yunus Musah (19), who looked composed in the midfield role that Gattuso appears to favour for him.
With the sprightly US international building the attacks, Valencia were able to grab a goal in the closing seconds of the first half after Valery Fernandez was penalised for a handball. Subsequently, Carlos Soler dispatched a penalty for the second consecutive LaLiga opening matchday.
Michel's men continued to look capable but lacked the required precision to trouble the hosts despite the feistiness of their approach.
Their aggression appeared to anger Valencia, however, and the visitors were handed a lifeline when Eray Comert was dismissed for a reckless challenge. Gattuso was next to go into the book as he looked to fire up his side during a ragged start to the second period.
The visitors brought on their all-time top LaLiga scorer Cristhian Stuani in search of an equaliser but, despite dominating the ball for large periods, they were unable to test Giorgi Mamardashvili.
As the final whistle approached, Valencia were intelligent in possession and slowed the contest enough to ensure celebrations on Spain’s eastern coast.
After a troubling summer, which has seen several players depart, Valencia will be more than satisfied to get three points on the board immediately.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Yunus Musah (Valencia)