Valencia General Director Mateu Alemany is looking forward to visiting Celtic Park in February.

The 55-year-old spoke to the press following the Europa League last 32 draw.

He told the crowd of journalists that he can’t wait to experience Parkhead’s ‘Mythical stadium’.

The last time the Spaniards faced Celtic was 17 years ago in an atmosphere still remembered by the Glaswegians.

Alemany respects Celtic challenge

The Director expects a challenge against Brendan Rodgers men in the last 32.

Alemany said: “In sporting terms, it’s a tough tie.

“We have to respect they have eliminated a strong team like RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga.”

Valencia dropped out the Champions League but got a massive result at Old Trafford against Manchester United.

Valencia celebrate winning goal against Manchester United last week. (Photo by Jeroen Meuwsen/Soccrates/Getty Images)

Brendan Rodgers said: “They’ve got very good players.

“They played very well at Old Trafford. It will be a tough examination for us.”

Alemany also reacted to getting to play at Celtic Park, as well as the traveling support.

Alemany credits the Celtic fans and its traveling support. (Photo by OLE MARTIN WOLD/AFP/Getty Images)

The General director said: “I also think it’s an opportunity to play in a mythical stadium, they have great fans so it’s also good for Valencia as the city will be filled with Celtic supporters.”

How big is the Valencia challenge?

Alemany thinks the game will be a tough tie but it’s arguably tougher for Celtic.

Valencia are languishing in 14th in La Liga and are reeling following their exit from the Champions League.

Marcelino Garcia Toral’s side are four points ahead of Rangers’ Europa rivals Villarreal who finished top of that group.

Celtic are going through a bad spot having been beaten by Hibs at the weekend.

Celtic will be looking for a much bigger improvement on the Hibs game against Valencia. (Photo by Callum Landells/Getty Images)

Rodgers claims The Hoops will be stronger in February, following a transfer window.

The Celts will need to rise against big names such as Kevin Gameiro and Michy Batshuayi.

Alemany was being very respectful of Celtic but he will know Valencia are favourites.

Rodgers must prepare his Celtic side to meet the challenge and take the Celts the furthest they have in the Europa League.

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