2016 Valencia Third – Luis Nani #17 Large

The 2016–17 season was a chaotic one for Valencia CF. Multiple managerial changes and inconsistency left the club languishing in mid-table in La Liga, finishing 12th. Despite flashes of quality from new arrivals, the team lacked stability both defensively and in attack.

It was a transitional season, with the Mestalla crowd frustrated by off-field ownership drama and inconsistent results. However, it also saw individual talents like Nani, Simone Zaza, and Munir El Haddadi provide key moments that gave fans something to cheer.

⭐ Nani’s Impact (2016–17)

Portuguese winger Nani joined Valencia in the summer of 2016 after helping Portugal win Euro 2016.

• Played 26 La Liga matches, scoring 5 goals and adding 7 assists.

• His creativity and ability to drift between the wing and central spaces made him a vital attacking outlet.

• Scored decisive goals against Alavés and Granada, and provided assists that helped Valencia avoid slipping further down the table.

• Although the season was disappointing for the club overall, Nani’s flair and experience gave the side leadership in attack.

📋 Valencia 2016–17 Squad

Managers: Pako Ayestarán → Cesare Prandelli → Voro González (caretaker)

Goalkeepers: Diego Alves, Jaume Doménech, Mathew Ryan
Defenders: Eliaquim Mangala, Ezequiel Garay, Aymen Abdennour, José Gayà, Martín Montoya, João Cancelo, Antonio Barragán
Midfielders: Dani Parejo, Enzo Pérez, Mario Suárez, Fabián Orellana (joined Jan), Álvaro Medrán, Guilherme Siqueira
Forwards: Nani, Simone Zaza (joined Jan), Munir El Haddadi, Rodrigo Moreno, Santi Mina