Last update 8 May, 2025 by Alberto Llopis
Who are the best centrals in the history of Valencia CF?
The faithful fans who come to Mestalla surely have their own list in mind. Prepare a selection of the best central defenders who have dressed the Valencia CF shirt is not a simple task, But here we present a compilation of those who left an indelible mark on the history of the club.
Roberto Fabian Ayala
The Argentinian Roberto Fabian Ayala became a real legend of Valencia CF. Nicknamed “The mouse”, It was a key piece in the team that conquered two titles of the league between 2001-02 y 2003-04, In addition to the UEFA Cup in 2003-04. Your leadership, anticipation and ability to organize the defense consolidated him as one of the best centrals that have passed through the Spanish championship. Ayala played 275 Official matches with Valencia and scored 12 goals. His legacy lasts as an eternal idol for an always demanding hobby.
Ricardo Arias
Ricardo Arias is an icon in the history of Valencia CF, having played 467 Official matches with the club. With an elegant play style and a great capacity for anticipation, Arias represented the typical exquisite central, With good ball and excellent cutting. Although it was not prone to join the attack, He scored five goals in his career, including a crucial penalty in the final of the European Recopa in 1980. In the second decade of the century, Arias has served as club ambassador, consolidating its status as a Valencian legend.
Carlos Marchena
Sevillian Carlos Marchena is a myth of Valencia CF and Spanish football. He was part of the team that won two leagues and a UEFA Cup at the beginning of the 21st century under the direction of Rafa Benítez. Marchena played 330 Official matches with Valencia and scored 11 goals. Besides, He was world champion with Spain in 2010 and European champion in 2008, being a key figure in the defense of the national team. His delivery and leadership made him a reference both in the club and in the selection.
Were
Salvador González Marco, known as Were, Not only is he remembered for his role as an interim coach of Valencia CF on multiple occasions, but also for his solid career as a central defender of the club between 1985 y 1993. During his stage as a player, Voro was a rock in defense, highlighting for its forcefulness and commitment. After his retirement, It has been a constant figure in the club, Assuming delegate and emergency coach roles, winning the respect and admiration of the fans.
Paco Camarasa
Francisco José “Paco” Camarasa was part of one of the best generations of plants in the history of Valencia CF, Together with Voro and Fernando Giner. Played at the club from 1988 until the year 2000, accumulating more than a decade of service and even being a World Cup with Spain in 1994 During its stage in Mestalla. Camarasa was known for its defensive strength and leadership in the field, characteristics that made him a fundamental pillar of the team during the years 90.
Fernando Giner
Fernando Giner, nicknamed “The Chufa”, He defended the Valencia CF shirt for more than a decade, from 1982 until 1995, competing 300 official games and scoring 12 goals. International with Spain at the time of Javier Clemente, Giner was a blunt and hard central, known for its delivery and commitment. After passing through Valencia, He continued his career at Sporting de Gijón, Hercules and Levante, where he retired in the year 2000. His legacy endures as one of the great defenders in the history of the club.