We must find replacement for Otamendi: Valencia coach

Even though Spanish football club Valencia have made it to the Champions League group stage their coach Nuno has called for reinforcements, with the top priority being finding a replacement for Argentine defender Nicolas Otamendi.

Valencia were defeated 1-2 by French club Monaco in their play-off round encounter on Tuesday but progressed 4-3 on aggregate courtesy of their 3-1 triumph in the first leg of the tie.

The coach was impressed with the efforts of his side but said Valencia must boost their squad before the close of the transfer market which includes finding a replacement for Otamendi who has joined English side Manchester City.

"We need to make some decisions after this game. We have to talk and take a look at the market," Nuno was quoted as saying by goal.com on Tuesday.

"There are many details to analyse but after Otamendi's departure we need someone to replace him - and it will not be easy," he said.

Nuno also believes they will be facing a greater challenge now that they are in the group stage.

"We now face an even greater challenge (in the group stage) but we have many great players in the squad and need to use them depending on the game and what we want out of it."