Coquelin and Paulista providing on-field leadership

The careers of Gabriel Paulista and Francis Coquelin have several parallels, and both players are enjoying a more prominent role than ever in their respective third seasons at Valencia CF.

The duo joined the club from Arsenal in the 2017/18 season, just months apart. Paulista was brought in on a summer transfer, whilst Coquelin followed him from North London to Mestalla just five months later. Since then, they have experienced some successful times together, including their first silverware in Spain with Valencia CF's Copa del Rey win.

Coquelin has now reached the milestone of 50 league appearances for the club, whilst Paulista has played 77 times in LaLiga with VCF. The two have taken on increasing responsibility due to their character, charisma and position on the pitch (central midfielder and centre back), and at 28 and 29 years old are relative veterans in a youthful squad.

Whilst official captain status has been appointed to Dani Parejo, José Luís Gayà and Jaume Doménech, a Valencia CF side pushing for the Champions League spots are benefitting from the presence of two experienced campaigners and natural leaders in their ranks.