Valencia CF players were escorted out of the Mestalla Stadium by police on Saturday night amid heightened fan protests following a 1–1 La Liga draw with Elche, as tensions between supporters, players and club management reached a boiling point.
Frustrated Valencia fans voiced their anger throughout the match, loudly whistling, booing and making protest gestures in response to the team’s continued poor run of form. The discontent intensified after the final whistle, with some supporters directing insults at the players and openly calling for the resignation of head coach Carlos Corberán.
Although a late José Luis García Vayá (Pepelu) penalty salvaged a point for the home side, the result did little to ease the mood inside Mestalla, where supporters had earlier staged demonstrations against the club’s sporting direction and ownership.
Following the match, the situation outside the stadium became increasingly tense, with a group of angry fans remaining around the main exit gates. As a precautionary measure, Valencia players were prevented from using their usual departure route and were instead transported under police escort, accompanied by patrol vehicles, to ensure their safety.
The incident underscores the growing crisis at the club, with Valencia currently battling near the relegation zone, a position that has fueled sustained criticism from supporters over performances, recruitment decisions and overall leadership.
Pressure is now mounting on Corberán as fan dissatisfaction continues to grow, with Saturday night’s scenes highlighting the widening disconnect between the team and its supporters during a difficult season.
