Matchday 2 - Player to Watch

Joaquin (Valencia)

Over the last couple of seasons there have been indications that Joaquin Sanchez's Valencia career was beginning to wind down. The former Spain international was not an automatic first choice in Unai Emery's team last season as Pablo Hernandez, Juan Mata and David Silva were the manager's preferred trio of attacking midfielders behind David Villa. The departure of the two Davids this summer, however, has opened up more space in the Valencia midfield and the signing of Aritz Aduriz and Roberto Soldado will probably lead to a return to a 4-4-2 formation in which Joaquin will thrive on the right hand side. The Andalucian winger was one of the most impressive players on show on matchday one, scoring two goals and demonstrating glimpses of the form that had him linked with all of Europe's major clubs while he was at Real Betis. Racing Santander visit Mestalla on Saturday and, judging by the early signs of form, they are going to be in for a tough ride in Valencia. It could be the perfect platform for Joaquin to increase his goal tally.