Spain’s third largest city boasts the countries fifth most successful football team, but perhaps surprisingly only its eighth largest stadium.
But does size really matter?
Not when you like the Mestalla Stadium, home of Valencia Club de Fútbol. Besides, 49,430 isn’t really that small.
Founded in 1919, Valencia have played at the Mestalla since 1923, making 2023 its centenary year.
The old Estadio sits nestled amongst residential flats and apartments near to the city centre, and is typically drenched in the type of sunshine you’d expect on Spain’s southeastern coastline.
Photographer Alex Amorós has been documenting historic football grounds, many of which – due to their age – face uncertain futures. He’s placed an emphasis on stadiums that sit within local communities, forming a focal point for the fans and occupants of those cities.
The 2008–09 season was due to be Valencia’s last at the Mestalla, with the club moving to their new 75,000-seater stadium Nou Mestalla. A financial club crisis put a stop to that, with work on the stadium heavily delayed and no signs of completion in sight.
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Super Riazor | Alex Amorós£8.50 -
Estadio | Danny Last£8.50 -
Eastlands MCR 2023 | Richard Davis£8.50
Over the years Spanish and International stars have graced the grounds hallowed turf. Gaizka Mendieta and Santiago Cañizares helped the side reach back-to-back Champions League finals between 2000 and 2001, whilst icons like David SIlva, David Villa, Joaquín, David Albelda, Roberto Ayala and Claudio Lopez made them one of the teams to watch in Europe during that decade.
The Mestalla is renowned for the steep terracing in its North Stand, and for being one of the most intimidating atmospheres in Europe, particularly when clashing with their Valencian neighbours Villarreal, with whom they share a fierce rivalry.
About his pictures, Amorós commented: “The Mestalla Stadium is located in the centre of Valencia and is named after a historic canal in that area. The stadium that was opened on May 20th 1923, the first match that was held was between Valencia CF and UD Levante, the other team in the city.
“Valencia is the third largest city in Spain and Valencia CF is one of the historic teams in Spanish football, having won the League and the Cup on several occasions and being runner-up in the Champions League twice. Kempes, Mendieta, David Villa, David Silva, Juan Mata, Pablo Aimar, Piojo López, Juan Sol, David Villa, Lobo Diarte, Pedja Mijatovic, Pep Claramunt or Ricardo Arias are some of the legendary players of this team.
“In this stadium Spain played as a local during the 82 World Cup and several Copa del Rey finals have been held at Mestalla.”
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