Valencia strengthens its bench with González and Vilaplana
Valencia finalizes the addition of Israel González as the main assistant and Javi Vilaplana in the development area, consolidating Xavi Albert's project for the 2026-27 season. Joan Maroto remains in the organization after thirteen consecutive years.
Valencia Basket has completed a significant restructuring of its coaching staff in response to the demands of newly appointed coach Xavi Albert. The EuroLeague club has secured two strategic signings that reinforce the sports project for the upcoming season, as confirmed by COPE. The board also ensures the continuity of Joan Maroto, a veteran assistant who has been part of the organization for thirteen consecutive seasons.
Israel González, Elite Experience on the Bench
Israel González arrives at Valencia as the lead assistant coach after a solid career in top-level European basketball. The 51-year-old coach from Cantabria brings substantial experience after overseeing 129 games of European competition at ALBA Berlin. During his time with the German club, González achieved a national double by winning the easyCredit BBL and the BBL-Pokal in the 2021-22 season, showcasing the ability to compete in challenging environments.
His tactical philosophy is characterized by fast-paced high-possession play, with a special emphasis on three-point shooting and agile player rotations. This approach naturally aligns with the identity that Albert aims to instill in the team. Before joining Valencia, González briefly worked at Trieste in the 2025-26 season, where he continued to refine his offensive methodology.
Vilaplana Returns for Analysis and Development
Javi Vilaplana rejoins Valencia's coaching staff to take on roles in player development and video analysis. The coach returns following his experience as head coach of Lliria, where he gained expertise in team management. His addition fulfills another key request made by Albert to form a balanced and specialized coaching staff.
Vilaplana’s comeback enhances the analytical dimension of the project, a critical aspect in modern competition where tactical analysis and assessing opponents play a vital role. His previous knowledge of the organization facilitates his quick integration into the new working scheme.
Maroto, Continuity After Thirteen Years
Joan Maroto embarks on his thirteenth consecutive season at Valencia after serving the organization under five previous coaches. His continued presence underscores the confidence placed in his experience and adaptive capacity to different projects and methodologies. Maroto has proven to be a stable pillar in the coaching staff, justifying his continuity amid significant changes.
A Demanding Schedule that Might Require Further Additions
Valencia’s board does not rule out the addition of another coach for the upcoming season. The decision stems from the magnitude of the schedule facing the club for 2026-27, with simultaneous commitments in regional and European competitions of considerable intensity. Such workload justifies expanding the coaching staff to allocate responsibilities more effectively and ensure optimal oversight of all project aspects.
Xavi Albert, aged 39, was promoted to head coach following Pedro Martínez's departure to Real Madrid. His previous experience as an assistant positions him to lead this new phase. With the signings of González and Vilaplana, and Maroto's continuity, Valencia is building a coaching team with experience, specialization, and continuity, key elements to compete in an increasingly demanding EuroLeague.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Valencia refuerza su banquillo con González y Vilaplana