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Levante UD
Levante UD
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Levante Unión Deportiva, S.A.D. (Spanish: [leˈβante wˈnjon depoɾˈtiβa]) is a Spanish football club in Valencia, in the namesake autonomous community.

Key Information

Founded on 6 September 1909, the club will compete in La Liga for the 2025–26 season, holding home games at Ciutat de València Stadium.[2][3][4]

History

[edit]

Early years (1909–1935)

[edit]
Levante CF vs Valencia CF in 1932

Levante UD was formerly registered as Levante Football Club on 9 September 1909[5][6] (celebrating its 100th anniversary on 9 September 2009).[7] Thus Levante is the most senior football club in Valencia, with rival team Valencia CF not being formed until 1919.[8][9][10][11]

Levante shares its name with the eastern region of the Iberian Peninsula, with Spain's east coast, the coast over which the sun rises (levantar in Spanish),[12] with the Levant wind that comes from the east, and with the Levante beach in La Malvarrosa where Levante Football Club played some of its earliest fixtures.

Levante's earliest games were played at La Platjeta, near the docks on a plot of land owned by a perfume entrepreneur. Its next ground was also near the port area, and the club gradually became associated with the working class. In 1919, the side played Valencia CF for the first time, losing 0–1; the game marked the inauguration of the recently built ground at Algirós. In 1928, Levante FC won its first trophy, the Valencian Championship.

1909 also saw the birth of Gimnástico Football Club, which originally played at Patronato de la Juventud Obrera, being then named Gimnástico-Patronato. In 1919, Gimnástico became the champion of the Campeonato de Valencia, beating CD Castellón in two leg finals; the next year, the club had become Real Gimnástico Football Club, after being granted royal patronage by Alfonso XIII, and they reached the final of Campeonato Regional de Levante, but lost to Club Deportivo Aguileño. In 1931, with the founding of the Second Spanish Republic, the club dropped the Real from its name.

In 1934–35, both Levante and Gimnástico debuted in the second division, when the league was expanded from 10 teams to 24. In 1935, Levante won the Campeonato Levante-Sur, a competition that featured teams from Valencia, Murcia and Andalusia,[13] and subsequently reached the semi-finals of the Spanish Cup, consecutively beating Valencia and Barcelona before losing to eventual runners-up Sabadell.

During the civil war: Copa de la España Libre (1937)

[edit]

During the Spanish Civil War, Levante and Gimnástico played in the Mediterranean League, finishing fifth and sixth respectively. Teams from this league also competed in the Copa de la España Libre ("Free Spain Cup"). It was originally intended that the top four teams from the league would enter the cup, but Barcelona opted to tour Mexico and the United States, and as a result, Levante took its place. The first round of the competition was a mini-league with the top two teams, Levante and Valencia, qualifying for the final. On 18 July 1937, Levante defeated its city rivals 1–0 at the Montjuïc.[14][15]

Merging: Gimnástico and Levante (1939)

[edit]
Pennat of Gimnàtic de València and Levante FC, the two teams that created the Levante UD

During the Civil War, Levante's ground was destroyed, but the club's squad remained intact. In contrast, Gimnástico had a ground, Estadio de Vallejo, but had lost most of their players. As a result, in 1939 Levante FC and Gimnástico FC merged into Levante Unión Deportiva.[16] Levante UD can thus trace its origin back to at least 1909 through both Levante FC and Gimnástico FC. The merged club was at first named Unión Deportiva Levante-Gimnástico, then changed it a few years later to Levante Unión Deportiva. The current club colours date from this era: the blaugrana, blue-garnet, home colours were originally those of Gimnástico FC, while the black and white away kit were the colours of Levante FC. Levante UD also inherited from Gimnástico FC their nickname, Granota, the Frogs.[17][18][11][9][19]

La Liga: relegations and promotions (1963–present)

[edit]

Levante had to wait until the 1960s to make its La Liga debut. In 1963, the club finished runner-up in Group II of the second division, defeating Deportivo de La Coruña 4–2 on aggregate in the promotion play-offs. During the first top flight season, it managed to win both games against Valencia, and also achieved a 5–1 home win against Barcelona in the 1964–65 campaign, but was relegated nonetheless after losing in the playoffs against Málaga. It spent most of the following two decades in the second and third divisions; the Segunda División B would not be created until 1977.

Johan Cruyff in his debut with Levante, March 1981

In the early 1980s, Dutch superstar Johan Cruyff played half a season for the club, retiring three years later. After winning 2003–04's second division, Levante returned to the top level but survived only one season. Finishing third in 2005–06, it returned for two additional campaigns, the decisive match in the 2006–07 season being a 4–2 home win against Valencia courtesy of Riga Mustapha (two goals), Salva and Laurent Courtois.

Levante's financial status worsened, however, and there were reports that the players had only received approximately one-fifth of their contractual payments. News reports stated that the club had incurred a debt of over €18 million in payments due to its players. The team plummeted down the standings, and it was confirmed with several matches to go that the club would be playing in the second division in 2008–09. The players protested at their lack of payments at one point, refusing to move for several seconds after the opening whistle against Deportivo and later announcing that they would strike during the season-ending game at Real Madrid. The threat was withdrawn when league officials announced that a benefit game would be played between a Levante XI and a Primera División XI, with all receipts going to pay the Levante players' wages.

On 13 June 2010, Levante returned to La Liga after a 3–1 home win against already relegated Castellón, making its final round 0–4 defeat at Real Betis irrelevant.[20] Under the manager who led the team back to the top flight, Luis García Plaza, Levante finally retained its top division status in the 2010–11 season. At one point in the league's second round of matches, Levante was third in the table behind Barcelona and Real Madrid, after losing just once (against Real Madrid) in 12 games.[21]

Chart of Levante UD league performance 1929–present

On 26 October 2011, during round nine of the season, Levante defeated Real Sociedad 3–2 to move top of the first division table for the first time in the club's history, with 23 points.[22] In the process, it recorded seven straight wins after drawing its first two games.[23] The club eventually finished sixth after defeating Athletic Bilbao 3–0 at home in its last match, thus qualifying for the UEFA Europa League for the first time in its history.[24] There, they made it to the last 16 before a 2–0 extra-time loss to Russia's FC Rubin Kazan.[25]

Deportivo de La Coruña vs. Levante.

In the 2015–16 season, Levante was relegated after defeat by Málaga and finished last. The club was promoted back to the top league in 2016–17, winning the Segunda División title. In the 2017–18 season, the club secured safety in the league and on 13 May, beat the champions Barcelona 5–4 (having led 5–1 early in the second half), with Emmanuel Boateng scoring his first ever career hat-trick.[26] This win ended Barcelona's hopes of achieving an unbeaten season.[27]

In the 2021–22 season, Levante was relegated after being defeated 0–6 by Real Madrid, ending their five years in the top tier.

Seasons

[edit]

Recent history

[edit]
Before a game in March 2013
Season Div Pos. Pld W D L GF GA Pts Cup Notes
2003–04 2D 1st 42 22 13 7 59 33 79 Last 16 Promoted
2004–05 1D 18th 38 9 10 19 39 58 37 Relegated
2005–06 2D 3rd 42 20 14 8 53 39 74 1st round Promoted
2006–07 1D 15th 38 10 12 16 37 53 42 Last 16
2007–08 1D 20th 38 7 5 26 33 75 26 Last 16 Relegated
2008–09 2D 8th 42 18 10 14 59 59 64
2009–10 2D 3rd 42 19 14 9 63 45 71 Promoted
2010–11 1D 14th 38 12 9 17 41 52 45 Last 16
2011–12 1D 6th 38 16 7 15 54 50 55 Quarter-finals Qualified to UEFA Europa League
2012–13 1D 11th 38 12 10 16 40 57 46 Last 16 Last 16 UEFA Europa League
2013–14 1D 10th 38 12 12 14 35 43 48 Quarter-finals
2014–15 1D 14th 38 9 10 19 34 67 37 Last 16
2015–16 1D 20th 36 7 8 21 34 66 29 1st round Relegated
2016–17 2D 1st 42 25 9 8 57 32 84 2nd round Champions and Promoted
2017–18 1D 15th 38 11 13 14 44 58 46 Last 16
2018–19 1D 15th 38 11 11 16 59 66 44 Last 16
2019–20 1D 12th 38 14 7 17 47 53 49 Last 32
2020–21 1D 14th 38 9 14 15 46 57 41 Semi-finals
2021–22 1D 19th 38 8 11 19 51 76 35 2nd round Relegated
2022–23 2D 3rd 42 18 18 6 46 30 72 Last 16 Promotion Play-offs Runners-up
2023–24 2D 8th 42 13 20 9 49 45 59 2nd round
2024–25 2D 1st 42 22 13 7 69 42 79 1st round Champions and Promoted

European record

[edit]
Season Competition Round Opposition Home Away Aggregate
2012–13 UEFA Europa League Play-off round Scotland Motherwell 1–0 2–0 3–0
Group L Netherlands Twente 3–0 0–0 2nd
Germany Hannover 96 2–2 1–2
Sweden Helsingborg 1–0 3–1
Round of 32 Greece Olympiacos 3–0 1–0 4–0
Round of 16 Russia Rubin Kazan 0–0 0–2 (a.e.t.) 0–2

Season to season

[edit]
Season Tier Division Place Copa del Rey
1939–40 2 1st First round
1940–41 2 3rd Quarterfinals
1941–42 2 8th First round
1942–43 3 1ª Reg. 1st First round
1943–44 3 1st -
1944–45 3 2nd -
1945–46 3 1st -
1946–47 2 6th Round of 16
1947–48 2 5th Fifth round
1948–49 2 9th Fourth round
1949–50 2 13th Third round
1950/51 2 13th -
1951–52 2 14th -
1952–53 3 2nd -
1953–54 3 1st -
1954–55 2 15th -
1955–56 3 1st -
1956–57 2 11th -
1957–58 2 4th -
1958–59 2 2nd Round of 32
Season Tier Division Place Copa del Rey
1959–60 2 6th First round
1960–61 2 6th First round
1961–62 2 6th First round
1962–63 2 2nd Round of 16
1963–64 1 10th Round of 32
1964–65 1 14th Round of 16
1965–66 2 5th First round
1966–67 2 4th Round of 32
1967–68 2 14th First round
1968–69 3 3rd -
1969–70 3 4th Third round
1970–71 3 12th First round
1971–72 3 6th Second round
1972–73 3 1st Third round
1973–74 2 19th Fifth round
1974–75 3 2nd Fourth round
1975–76 3 1st First round
1976–77 2 18th Second round
1977–78 3 2ª B 4th Third round
1978–79 3 2ª B 1st Second round
Season Tier Division Place Copa del Rey
1979–80 2 10th Third round
1980–81 2 9th Round of 16
1981–82 2 19th Third round
1982–83 4 2nd Second round
1983–84 4 2nd Second round
1984–85 3 2ª B 11th Second round
1985–86 3 2ª B 10th -
1986–87 4 2nd -
1987–88 3 2ª B 6th Third round
1988–89 3 2ª B 1st Second round
1989–90 2 15th First round
1990–91 2 19th Third round
1991–92 3 2ª B 11th Third round
1992–93 3 2ª B 9th Second round
1993–94 3 2ª B 3rd Third round
1994–95 3 2ª B 1st First round
1995–96 3 2ª B 1st Third round
1996–97 2 9th Second round
1997–98 2 22nd First round
1998–99 3 2ª B 1st Round of 16
Season Tier Division Place Copa del Rey
1999–2000 2 7th prem. round
2000–01 2 8th Round of 32
2001–02 2 19th Round of 32
2002–03 2 4th Round of 64
2003–04 2 1st Round of 16
2004–05 1 18th Round of 32
2005–06 2 3rd First round
2006–07 1 15th Round of 32
2007–08 1 20th Round of 16
2008–09 2 8th Second round
2009–10 2 3rd Second round
2010–11 1 14th Round of 16
2011–12 1 6th Quarterfinals
2012–13 1 11th Round of 16
2013–14 1 10th Quarterfinals
2014–15 1 14th Round of 16
2015–16 1 20th Round of 32
2016–17 2 1st Second round
2017–18 1 15th Round of 16
2018–19 1 15th Round of 16
Season Tier Division Place Copa del Rey
2019–20 1 12th Round of 32
2020–21 1 14th Semifinals
2021–22 1 19th Second round
2022–23 2 3rd Round of 16
2023–24 2 8th Second round
2024–25 2 1st First round
2025–26 1 TBD

Players

[edit]

Current squad

[edit]
As of 2 September 2025[28]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
1 GK  ESP Pablo Campos
2 DF  ARG Matías Moreno (on loan from Fiorentina)
3 DF  URU Alan Matturro (on loan from Genoa)
4 DF  ESP Adrián de la Fuente
5 DF  ESP Unai Elgezabal
6 DF  ESP Diego Pampín
7 FW  ESP Roger Brugué
8 MF  ESP Jon Ander Olasagasti
9 FW  ESP Iván Romero
10 MF  ESP Pablo Martínez (vice-captain)
11 FW  ESP José Luis Morales (3rd captain)
12 MF  ESP Unai Vencedor (on loan from Athletic Bilbao)
13 GK  AUS Mathew Ryan
No. Pos. Nation Player
14 DF  ESP Jorge Cabello
15 FW  CTA Goduine Koyalipou (on loan from Lens)
16 MF  HON Kervin Arriaga
17 DF  ESP Víctor García
18 FW  ESP Iker Losada (on loan from Betis)
19 FW  ESP Carlos Espí
20 MF  ESP Oriol Rey
21 FW  CMR Karl Etta Eyong
22 DF  GER Jeremy Toljan
23 DF  ESP Manu Sánchez (on loan from Celta)
24 MF  ESP Carlos Álvarez
32 GK  ESP Álex Primo

Reserve team

[edit]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
28 DF  PAN Martín Krug
29 DF  ESP Nacho Pérez
30 MF  ESP Pablo Rosón
No. Pos. Nation Player
33 MF  ESP Joan Ruiz
34 GK  ESP Cayetano Romero
35 DF  GHA Huseini Nakoha

Out on loan

[edit]

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.

No. Pos. Nation Player
GK  ESP Dani Martín (at Huesca until 30 June 2026)
DF  ESP Xavi Grande (at Marítimo until 30 June 2026)
MF  ESP Hugo Redón (at Teruel until 30 June 2026)
No. Pos. Nation Player
MF  ESP Edgar Alcañiz (at Cartagena until 30 June 2026)
FW  ESP Paco Cortés (at Cultural Leonesa until 30 June 2026)
FW  ESP Víctor Fernández (at Valencia Mestalla until 30 June 2026)

Club officials

[edit]

Current technical staff

[edit]
Position Staff
Head coach Spain Julián Calero
Assistant head coach Spain Carlos Garcia
Fitness coach Spain Vicente Benítez
Spain Roberto Ovejero
Goalkeeper coach Spain Borja Montero
Chief analyst Spain Iñaki Aizpurúa
Chief of medical services Spain Joel Gambín
Doctor Spain Salvador Chang
Rehab fitness coach Spain Javier Olmo Sánchez
Rehab coach Spain Cristóbal Fuentes Nieto
Spain Luis Miguel González Cuesta
Physiotherapist Spain Tomás Coloma Martínez
Argentina Martín Badano
Spain Javier Torres Macías
Spain Luis Escudero Soria
Nutritionist Spain Ana García
Chiropodist Spain Santiago Muñoz Crespo
Delegate Spain José Antonio Gómez Gómez
Maintenance chief Spain José Ramón Ferrer Bueno
Equipment manager Spain Ángel Martínez
Spain Manolo Motos

Last updated: 26 February 2025
Source: Levante UD (in Spanish)

Notable former players

[edit]

Note: this list includes players that have appeared in at least 100 league games and/or have reached international status.

Coaches

[edit]

Honours

[edit]

National competitions

[edit]

Regional competitions

[edit]

Friendly tournaments

[edit]
  • Trofeo Costa de Valencia [30]
    • Winners: 1972, 1974, 1977
  • Trofeo Comunidad Valenciana [31]
    • Winners: 1986
  • Trofeo Ciutat de València
    • Winners: 1995
  • Trofeo Ciudad de Valencia
    • Winners: 1997
  • Trofeo de la Generalitat Valenciana
    • Winners: 2000

Stadium

[edit]

Estadi Ciutat de València[4][3] was opened on 9 September 1969, with capacity for 25,354 spectators. The pitch measures 107 by 69 metres.

Due to the 2019–20 season's late finish because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and renovation work at their stadium, Levante concluded the campaign behind closed doors at the Estadi Olímpic Camilo Cano in La Nucia, Province of Alicante.[32]

Rivals

[edit]

Levante contest the Derbi Valenciano, also known as the Derbi del Turia or Derbi Valentino, with local rivals Valencia.[33] The fixture has been played 38 times competitively, with Valencia winning 21 times to Levante's 8.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Levante Unión Deportiva, S.A.D. is a professional association football club based in Valencia, Spain, that currently competes in La Liga, the top division of the Spanish football league system. The club traces its origins to 9 September 1909, when Levante Football Club was established in the city's eastern beach district of Levante, later merging with Gimnástico Football Club in 1939 to form the modern entity following the Spanish Civil War. Known as the Granotas (Frogs) for their green training kits resembling the amphibian's skin, Levante plays home matches at the Estadi Ciutat de València, which has a capacity of approximately 26,000 spectators. Among its notable achievements, the club won the Copa del Generalísimo (now Copa del Rey) in the 1936–37 season as Levante FC and has secured three Segunda División titles, most recently in 2024–25 to earn promotion back to La Liga. Levante's highest La Liga finish came in 2017, placing fourth and qualifying for the UEFA Europa League, highlighting its periodic competitiveness despite frequent relegations and promotions between Spain's top two tiers.

History

Foundation and early years (1909–1935)

Levante Football Club was established in September 1909 in Valencia's Poblados Marítimos district, specifically the Cabañal area, with José Ballester serving as its inaugural president; the club's formation was publicly announced in the local newspaper El Pueblo on September 7, 1909. The name "Levante" referenced the eastern maritime neighborhoods and beaches like La Malvarrosa, reflecting its roots among working-class communities near the port. Concurrently, Gimnástico Fútbol Club was founded on January 15, 1909, under the auspices of the Patronato de la Juventud Obrera, a Catholic workers' youth organization, with Amador Sanchís as a key early leader; Gimnástico emphasized and drew support from middle-class and institutional backers in central . The emergence of both clubs coincided with the 1909 Exposición Regional Valenciana, an industrial exhibition that catalyzed organized football in the city by hosting demonstration matches and tournaments, attracting British expatriates and local enthusiasts who had encountered the sport through trade and travel. Early games occurred on rudimentary pitches such as La Placheta (at the Patronato Obrero facilities in Campanar), the Exposición field, and Campo de la Soledad, often drawing crowds of several hundred spectators. Levante FC and Gimnástico quickly became fixtures in informal friendlies and nascent regional fixtures against teams like and other local outfits, fostering rivalries that highlighted class and neighborhood divides—Levante representing the seafaring periphery, Gimnástico the urban core. By the 1910s, both participated in the Campeonato Regional de Valencia, though infrastructure limitations and the sport's amateur status restricted consistent competition. Through the , Levante FC and Gimnástico solidified their roles in Valencian football's expansion, competing in federated regional leagues under the Real Federación Española de Fútbol, established in 1909 but gaining traction post-World War I. Levante achieved its first documented regional success in by clinching the Campeonato de , a milestone that underscored the club's growing organizational stability despite financial precarity and player turnover from manual labor demands. Gimnástico, meanwhile, secured multiple regional honors in the early , including appearances in promotion playoffs to Spain's . By 1935, Levante won the Campeonato Levante-Sur, a tournament encompassing teams from , , and , earning a berth in national cup semifinals—the closest either precursor came to elite contention before wartime disruptions. These accomplishments reflected incremental , with both clubs adopting striped kits (Levante in blue-and-red, Gimnástico in white-and-blue) and building modest fanbases amid Spain's economic instability and the Second Republic's social upheavals.

Spanish Civil War and club merger (1936–1939)

The Spanish Civil War, erupting on July 17, 1936, profoundly disrupted football in Valencia, affecting Levante FC and Gimnástico FC, the two clubs that would later merge to form Levante UD. Levante FC, aligned with Republican forces, maintained its squad largely intact despite the destruction of its ground, while Gimnástico FC, perceived as more conservative, retained its Estadio de Vallejo facility but suffered significant player losses. Both clubs continued competing in wartime competitions, participating in the Mediterranean League organized in Republican-held territories, where Levante FC finished fifth and Gimnástico FC sixth in the standings. Levante FC achieved notable success during the conflict by winning the Copa de España Libre (Free Spain Cup) on July 18, 1937, defeating Valencia FC 1-0 in the final at Barcelona's , an event commemorating the war's first anniversary and showcasing Republican solidarity through football. This tournament, contested among teams from Republican zones including Levante FC, Gimnástico FC, and , provided a brief respite amid the devastation, though its official recognition was suppressed under the subsequent Franco regime until recent decades. With the war's conclusion in March 1939 and the establishment of Francisco Franco's dictatorship, the regime imposed structural changes on Spanish football to consolidate control, leading to the forced merger of Levante FC and Gimnástico FC. Announced in August 1939, the union created Unión Deportiva Levante-Gimnástico (UDLG), combining Levante's playing personnel with Gimnástico's infrastructure, under the presidency of Rafael Valls; this move was interpreted by some as an effort to dilute Levante FC's leftist supporter base through amalgamation with the more right-leaning Gimnástico FC. The merged entity adopted Levante's name but incorporated elements from both clubs, including Gimnástico's blue-and-red stripes in its kit, and began operations in the 1939–40 season under wartime recovery constraints, setting the foundation for Levante UD's post-war identity; the name was formalized as Levante Unión Deportiva in 1941. This merger ensured the clubs' survival amid punitive postwar policies but marked the end of their independent existences, reflecting broader Francoist interventions in regional sports institutions.

Post-war reconstruction and regional dominance (1940–1962)

Following the , Levante UD underwent reconstruction through the 1939 merger of Levante FC and Gimnástico FC into Unión Deportiva Levante-Gimnástico (UDLG), which provided administrative and financial stability amid postwar economic constraints and regime-mandated reorganizations of Spanish football. The club resumed competitive play in the 1939–40 season, placed in Group III, where it demonstrated early dominance by clinching the group title with consistent victories, though a promotion playoff loss prevented ascent to the Primera División. In the 1939–40 Copa del Generalísimo, UDLG advanced to the quarterfinals, requiring a third match after two draws against Espanyol before elimination. The 1940–41 season saw continued competitiveness in Group II, finishing third and showcasing attacking prowess, but promotion eluded the side once more. In June 1941, the entity formalized as Levante Unión Deportiva (Levante UD), adopting the blue-and-red stripes of Gimnástico while retaining Levante FC's spirit, a change that solidified its identity during infrastructural rebuilding at fields like Campo de Vallejo. However, the 1941–42 campaign ended in relegation from after a bottom-group finish, exacerbated by postwar resource shortages and player transitions. Dropped to the and regional competitions, Levante UD rebuilt through youth integration and local recruitment. The 1943–44 season yielded the Regional First-Class Championship title, affirming regional supremacy in Valencian play against rivals like reserves and reinforcing fan support amid national recovery efforts. Steady performances culminated in the 1945–46 promotion back to under president Francisco Belenguer, who addressed mounting debts through sponsorships and cost controls. This ascent marked a turning point, with Belenguer's leadership emphasizing disciplined finances and competitive squads. From 1946 to 1962, Levante UD established regional dominance in , frequently contending for promotion while outperforming local counterparts in derbies and ties. Seasons like 1955–56 and 1957–58 saw upper-table finishes (e.g., 6th and 4th in their groups), driven by tactical evolutions under managers such as José Íñiguez and key contributors including forwards like Hidalgo and defenders like Rodri, who embodied the club's resilient, counterattacking style. Financial strains persisted, including a 1952 resolved via asset sales, yet the club avoided further relegation, amassing points totals rivaling promotion contenders and securing consistent mid-tier stability. By 1961–62, Levante UD's 3rd-place group finish set the stage for the decisive 1962–63 , reflecting two decades of incremental dominance rooted in Valencian talent pipelines and adaptation.

Entry into La Liga and initial fluctuations (1963–1989)

Levante UD secured promotion to the Primera División for the first time in June 1963, finishing as runners-up in Group II of the Segunda División before defeating Deportivo de La Coruña in a decisive playoff match at the Vallejo stadium. Under president Eduardo Clérigues, this achievement marked the club's entry into Spain's top flight after decades in lower divisions. In their inaugural Primera División season of 1963–64, Levante finished 10th out of 16 teams, accumulating 27 points from 10 wins, 7 draws, and 13 losses, with 43 goals scored and 56 conceded. The campaign included the first top-flight Valencia derby on 28 September 1963, a 5–3 loss to at . The following 1964–65 season proved challenging, as Levante managed only 21 points from 8 wins, 5 draws, and 17 losses, finishing 14th and suffering relegation after two years in the elite division. Following relegation, Levante competed in the , where they posted a strong 4th-place finish in 1966–67 with 37 points but failed to secure promotion. The club experienced prolonged instability in the second tier through the , finishing mid-table in seasons like 1979–80 (10th, 38 points) and 1980–81 (8th, 38 points). Financial difficulties culminated in relegation to the third tier after a dismal 1981–82 campaign, ending 19th with just 20 points from 7 wins, 6 draws, and 25 losses. By 1985–86, in Group II, Levante stabilized somewhat with a 10th-place finish, earning 38 points from 16 wins, 6 draws, and 16 losses, reflecting ongoing fluctuations between divisions without returning to Primera División until decades later.

Modern promotions, relegations, and financial challenges (1990–present)

Following a 19th-place finish in the 1990–91 Segunda División season, Levante UD were relegated to Segunda División B, where they competed for much of the decade amid inconsistent results. The club achieved promotion back to the Segunda División in the 1996–97 season after finishing second in their Segunda B group and prevailing in the promotion playoffs. Stability proved elusive, as Levante hovered in mid-table or lower positions through the late 1990s and early 2000s, hampered by limited resources and frequent managerial changes. Levante's breakthrough came in the 2003–04 season, when they clinched the championship with 75 points, earning promotion to for 2004–05. However, they were relegated after finishing 18th in their return to the top flight. Undeterred, Levante secured another promotion in 2005–06 by placing third in and winning the playoff final against 2–0 on aggregate. This initiated a more sustained presence in , with the club posting respectable mid-table finishes, including a club-record sixth place in 2011–12 that qualified them for the . Relegation struck again in 2015–16 after a dismal 20th-place finish with just 32 points. Levante responded by dominating Segunda División in 2016–17, winning the title with 84 points and returning to La Liga. They maintained top-flight status for five seasons, avoiding relegation until 2021–22, when 19th place and 35 points sent them down. Subsequent Segunda campaigns yielded a third-place finish in 2022–23, eighth in 2023–24, and a triumphant first-place finish in 2024–25 with 79 points, securing direct promotion back to La Liga for the 2025–26 season. Parallel to these on-pitch fluctuations, Levante endured chronic financial pressures, exacerbated by Spain's broader football in the late and , where clubs accumulated over €623 million in collective liabilities. The club faced acute challenges post-relegation, including ownership instability under figures like Cherubino, who assumed control amid severe shortcomings, prompting the creation of shareholder-funded mechanisms to avert . Player sales, such as those of key assets during downturns, became routine to service debts and comply with league financial controls introduced in , though Levante avoided through restructurings and avoided administrative penalties. These issues underscored the causal link between relegation-induced revenue drops and fiscal strain in Spanish football's lower-revenue clubs.

Club identity and facilities

Badge, colors, and kit evolution

The badge of Levante UD originated with simple designs in 1909 for predecessor club Levante FC, evolving through various iterations reflecting the 1939 merger with Gimnástico FC. The current crest, introduced in 2000, features a —a heraldic of vigilance from Valencian tradition, shared with regional clubs like —within a shield divided into blue and red sections, incorporating the initials "LUD" and a football. Earlier post-merger badges from the emphasized textual elements and basic geometric shapes honoring both founding entities, with gradual additions of regional motifs over decades. Levante UD's traditional colors are blaugrana—blue and garnet (or claret red)—adopted from Gimnástico FC following the 1939 merger, supplanting Levante FC's original black and white palette. These hues returned definitively to home kits in June 1941, symbolizing the club's regional identity and heritage. Away kits have historically drawn from black and white roots, though variations occur, while specific codes include maroon (#b4053f), navy blue (#005ca5), and gold accents (#dca43e). Kit evolution began with Levante FC's black-and-white striped jerseys in the early 1900s, shifting post-merger to vertical blaugrana stripes for matches as the dominant style from 1941 onward. Away and third kits have experimented with patterns, such as red-and-white designs commemorating early merged colors in 2024–25, or green tributes to Valencian farmland in recent thirds.
PeriodManufacturer
1991–1998Rasan
1998–2000
2000–2003
2003–2004Xara
2004–2012Luanvi
2012–2014Kelme
2014–2016Nike
2016–presentMacron
Home kits maintain bold vertical stripes in deep red and , as seen in the 2025–26 release, preserving core amid sponsor and material updates.

Ciutat de València Stadium

The , situated in Valencia's San Vicente de Paúl district at San Vicente de Paúl 44, functions as the primary home venue for Levante UD. Inaugurated on 9 September 1969, the stadium replaced Levante's previous ground and was initially named Estadio Antonio Román in honor of the club's president at the time. Constructed in the late 1960s with an approximate initial capacity of 25,000 seats, it featured a basic enclosed design suitable for matches. The venue underwent a name change to Nou Estadi del Llevant in 1972, reflecting the club's identity, before being renamed in 1999 through an agreement with local authorities that included facade enhancements in club colors. Over the decades, incremental upgrades addressed wear from heavy use, but significant modernization occurred in the late 2010s amid Levante's La Liga promotions, focusing on structural integrity without altering the original seating bowl. A major renovation phase, completed around , introduced a tensile fabric membrane for full coverage, improved lighting, acoustics, and perimeter cabling, elevating comfort and multifunctionality. These enhancements increased the all-seated capacity to 26,354, including 344 box seats across 16 boxes, while maintaining a pitch dimension of 107 by 68 meters. Beyond football, the stadium supports corporate events, conferences, and concerts, contributing to its ranking as Spain's third-most active venue by event volume in recent assessments. It lacks but features covered stands on all sides, aiding year-round usability in Valencia's .

Training facilities and academy

The Ciutat Esportiva de Bunyol serves as the primary training ground for Levante UD's first team and youth squads, located in Buñol approximately 40 kilometers west of . Inaugurated in phases starting around 2003, the complex includes multiple football pitches, with Campo 1 featuring a 107 by 70 meter field and seating for 3,000 spectators used for reserve and youth matches. Facilities encompass player residences accommodating up to 120 athletes, equipped with private bathrooms, leisure areas, and support services like laundry and dining. In 2023, the club announced plans for a new complex in 's Nazaret district, incorporating seven pitches and a mini-stadium for the B team to expand infrastructure amid growing demands. Levante UD's youth academy, known as the Cantera Granota, operates from a base in at Calle San Vicente de Paul 44, focusing on talent development across age groups from pre-benjamín to juvenil levels. The structure emphasizes technical training aligned with the senior team's methodology, integrating sessions for parents and family involvement to foster holistic growth. Atlético Levante UD functions as the primary reserve side, competing in lower divisions to bridge academy players to the first team. The academy has produced several first-team contributors, including Sergio Ballesteros with 387 appearances and Juanfran with 382, alongside goalkeepers like Dani Cárdenas who progressed through the ranks. Recent achievements include the Juvenil A team's second league title in club history, secured in April 2024 with a 3-0 over Patacona CF. While not among Spain's elite producers of international stars, the system prioritizes sustainable integration over high-volume exports, supporting Levante's model of financial prudence and on-pitch competitiveness.

Rivalries

Local derbies in Valencia

The primary local derby for Levante UD in Valencia is the Derbi Valenciano against , a rivalry rooted in the city's footballing landscape and intensified by both clubs' presence in during recent decades. Levante UD, established in 1909 in the El Cabanyal district, predates , which was founded in 1919 near the city center, making Levante the senior club in Valencia. The first official encounter occurred in 1920 during the Valencian Regional Championship, marking the start of over a century of competition that has evolved from regional leagues to top-flight clashes. Levante UD's merger with Gimnàstic FC in 1939 consolidated its identity, while achieved early national success, winning titles in 1941–42, 1943–44, and 1946–47; Levante entered for the first time in 1963. The inaugural on 28 1963 ended 5–3 to at Mestalla, the highest-scoring top-flight meeting between the sides. Levante secured its first victory over Valencia in January 1964 with a 1–0 home win, though the club has never triumphed at Mestalla in history. Notable results include Levante's largest margin, a 4–2 home victory in the 2006–07 season, and Valencia's 5–1 away win in 2007–08, featuring a by . Controversies, such as a disputed '' by Valencia's Mista in 2005 and an offside decision against in 2011, have added to the fixture's tension. In head-to-head records across all competitions, dominates with 19 wins from 38 matches, against Levante UD's 9 victories and 10 draws, with goals tallied at 71–42 in Valencia's favor. These encounters span and , including quarter-final ties in 2011–12 and round-of-16 clashes in 1998–99 and 1934–35. Nearly 100 players have represented both clubs, including , , and Rubén Vezo, reflecting player mobility amid the rivalry. Levante's sustained top-flight status since 2004–05—spanning 14 of the last 18 seasons—has elevated the derby's prominence, transforming it into one of Spain's keenest urban rivalries despite Valencia's historical edge. The fixture's competitiveness persists, with both teams competing in for the 2025–26 season.

Levante UD vs Villarreal CF

Levante UD shares a regional rivalry with Villarreal CF, another club from the Valencian Community. The most recent head-to-head match between Levante UD and Villarreal CF was a club friendly on August 3, 2022, with Villarreal winning 3-1. The previous competitive match was in La Liga on April 2, 2022, where Levante won 2-0 at home. Other recent results include Villarreal's 5-0 win on January 3, 2022, and Levante's 1-0 win on February 3, 2021. No matches occurred between 2023 and early 2026 due to Levante's absence from La Liga. Villarreal holds the overall historical edge with 13 wins to Levante's 8 in 22 meetings (1 draw). A La Liga match between them is scheduled for February 18, 2026.

National rivalries

Levante UD maintains no major national rivalries comparable in intensity or historical animosity to the local Derbi del Turia with . Instead, competitive tensions with clubs from other regions have arisen primarily through prolonged encounters in and promotion/relegation battles, often marked by closely contested results rather than deep-seated cultural or fan-driven enmity. A notable example is the longstanding competition with , dating back to the 1960s, where matches have frequently influenced mid-table survival or playoff positioning. The clubs have met in 42 official fixtures as of 2024, with Zaragoza securing 18 victories, Levante 13, and 11 draws, reflecting a balanced dynamic that has fueled on-field rivalry without widespread off-field hostility. Key historical clashes include Zaragoza's 5-1 win over Levante in the 1964-65 season and Levante's 5-2 triumph on April 19, 2025, in LaLiga Hypermotion, underscoring the stakes in direct confrontations. Other national fixtures, such as those against Rayo Vallecano or Granada, occasionally intensify due to relegation dogfights—Levante's 0-3 loss to Rayo on October 19, 2025, exemplified such high-pressure encounters—but lack the recurring narrative of a dedicated derby. These matchups prioritize tactical and performance-based competition over traditional rivalry, aligning with Levante's history as a resilient underdog club focused on survival amid fluctuating divisions.

Honours and competitive record

Domestic competitions

Levante UD has secured three titles in the , Spain's second-tier league, with victories in the 2003–04, 2016–17, and 2024–25 seasons. These promotions enabled spells in , though the club has never won the top-flight competition. In cup competitions, Levante won the Copa de la España Libre in 1937, a organized in the Republican zone during the and featuring clubs from that area. The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) officially recognized this achievement in 2023, presenting the trophy to the club and incorporating it into its palmarés as the 1937 cup title. This remains the club's sole major domestic cup honour, distinct from the standard , which has not been won by Levante; the team's best performances in the latter include reaching the quarter-finals on multiple occasions, such as in the 2010–11 and 2013–14 seasons. Levante has not claimed the or any other national super cup. The club's domestic record reflects consistent competition in the lower tiers historically, with recent successes tied to financial recoveries and managerial stability rather than sustained elite-level dominance.

Regional and friendly tournaments

Levante UD's predecessor clubs achieved success in early regional competitions organized by the Royal Spanish Football Federation, which preceded the national league structure. Gimnástico FC, one of the merging entities, won the Campeonato Regional de Levante in the 1918–19 season by defeating CD Castellón 1–0 in the final. Levante FC secured the Campeonato de y Castellón in 1927–28, finishing with a record of 4 wins, 6 draws, and 1 loss, ahead of competitors including . Levante FC also claimed the Campeonato Supraregional Levante-Sur in 1934–35. Post-merger in 1939, regional participation diminished with the expansion of national divisions, though UD Levante Gimnástico (immediate predecessor) finished second in the Campeonato de Valencia y Castellón in 1939–40. In friendly tournaments, Levante UD has won the Trofeo Costa de Valencia three times: in as part of a triangular format, 1974 similarly, and 1977. The club lifted the Trofeo Comunidad Valenciana in 1986. Additionally, Levante UD claimed the Trofeo Ciutat de València in 1995, defeating 3–1 in the final edition of the tournament. These pre-season or invitational events, often hosted locally, served as preparation fixtures rather than competitive league honors.

European campaigns

Levante UD's only participation in European competitions occurred in the , marking the club's debut on the continental stage after securing sixth place in the season. Entering at the playoff round, the team demonstrated resilience and tactical discipline under coach , ultimately reaching the round of 16 with an overall record of 7 wins, 4 draws, and 1 loss across 12 matches. In the playoff round, Levante eliminated Scottish side with a 3–0 aggregate victory. The first leg on 23 August 2012 ended 2–0 away at Fir Park, followed by a 1–0 home win at Ciutat de València on 30 August, where scored the decisive goal in the 72nd minute. Levante were drawn into Group L alongside , , and . They finished second with 11 points from 5 wins and 1 draw, advancing to the knockout phase. Notable results included home victories of 3–0 against on 25 October 2012 and Helsingborg on 6 December 2012, as well as a 3–1 away win over Helsingborg on 22 November 2012. The group stage also featured a 2–2 home draw with Hannover on 8 November 2012.
DateOpponentHome/AwayResultScorers
20 September 2012Away2–2-
25 October 2012Home3–0-
8 November 2012Home2–2-
22 November 2012Away3–1-
6 December 2012Home3–0-
In the round of 32, Levante faced Olympiacos, prevailing 3–2 on aggregate despite a challenging draw. They secured a 3–0 home win in the first leg on 14 February 2013, highlighted by their defensive solidity and counter-attacking efficiency. The campaign concluded in the round of 16 against . The first leg on 7 March 2013 ended 0–0 at home, with both teams reduced to ten men after red cards. In the second leg on 14 March 2013, won 2–0 after extra time in , with goals from José Rondón and Vladimir Dyadyun, eliminating Levante on a 2–0 aggregate. This run represented Levante's deepest progress in Europe, underscoring the club's competitive potential despite limited resources compared to perennial continental contenders.

Season-by-season summary

Levante UD's performance across Spanish domestic leagues reflects periods of stability in the second tier interspersed with stints in the top flight, marked by promotions in 1939–40, 2003–04, 2009–10 (via ), 2016–17, and 2024–25, alongside relegations in 1940s, 2004–05, 2007–08, 2015–16, and 2021–22. The club achieved its highest La Liga finish of 6th place in 2011–12.
SeasonLeaguePosition
1934–353rd
1935–363rd
1939–401st (Promoted)
1940–413rd
1941–428th
1946–476th
1947–485th
1948–499th
1949–5013th
1951–5214th
1954–5515th
1956–5711th
1957–584th
1958–592nd
1959–606th
1960–616th
1961–626th
1962–632nd
1963–6410th
1964–6514th
1966–674th
1979–8010th
1980–818th
1981–8219th
1985–8610th
1989–9015th
1990–9119th
1996–979th
1997–9822nd
1999–007th
2000–018th
2001–0219th
2002–034th
2003–041st (Promoted)
2004–0518th (Relegated)
2005–063rd (Promoted via playoffs)
2006–0715th
2007–0820th (Relegated)
2008–098th
2009–103rd (Promoted via playoffs)
2010–1114th
2011–126th
2012–1311th
2013–1410th
2014–1514th
2015–1620th (Relegated)
2016–171st (Promoted)
2017–1815th
2018–1915th
2019–2012th
2020–2114th
2021–2219th (Relegated)
2022–233rd
2023–248th
2024–251st (Promoted)
2025–2616th*
*Provisional standing as of October 2025.

Players and squad development

Current first-team squad

As of October 2025, Levante UD's first-team squad for the 2025–26 season comprises 24 players, blending experienced internationals with emerging talents, under manager Julián Calero. The squad is structured as follows:

Goalkeepers

No.PlayerAgeNationality
1Pablo Campos23
13Mathew Ryan33/

Defenders

No.PlayerPositionAgeNationality
2Matías MorenoCentre-Back22
3Centre-Back21/
4Adrián DelaCentre-Back26
5Unai ElgezabalCentre-Back32
6Diego PampínLeft-Back25
14Jorge CabelloCentre-Back21
17Víctor GarcíaRight-Back28
22Right-Back31/
23Manu SánchezLeft-Back25

Midfielders

No.PlayerPositionAgeNationality
8Central Midfield25
10Pablo MartínezCentral Midfield27
12Central Midfield24
16Defensive Midfield27
20Oriol ReyDefensive Midfield27

Forwards

No.PlayerPositionAgeNationality
7Roger BruguéLeft Winger28
9Iván RomeroCentre-Forward24
11José Luis MoralesCentre-Forward38
15Goduine KoyalipouCentre-Forward25Central African Rep./
18Iker LosadaSecond Striker24
19Carlos EspíCentre-Forward20
21Karl Etta EyongCentre-Forward22
24Carlos ÁlvarezRight Winger22
This composition reflects a defensive emphasis with multiple centre-backs and a forward line led by veterans like alongside youth prospects.

Reserve team and academy prospects

Atlético Levante UD, established in 1962, functions as the primary reserve team for Levante UD, providing a platform for youth development and first-team integration. The team competes in the , Spain's fourth-tier league, specifically Group 6 during the 2025–26 season, where it has maintained a competitive presence amid regional rivals. Historically, Atlético Levante has oscillated between the third and fourth divisions, with periods in Segunda B but recent relegations reflecting challenges in sustaining higher-tier status, including a drop to following the 2022–23 campaign. Levante UD's youth emphasizes talent cultivation, drawing from local Valencian pools and international , though it has faced scrutiny for inconsistent promotion rates to the senior squad compared to elite Spanish academies. Notable include defender Juanfran, who amassed 382 appearances for the club after rising through the ranks in the , and Sergio Ballesteros, a central defender with 387 outings, both exemplifying pathways from academy to long-term first-team contributions. Other products like midfielder Vicente Iborra and winger Vicente transitioned successfully, with Iborra later captaining the side before moves abroad. Recent academy highlights include the Juvenil A team's win in April 2024, propelling prospects such as Buba Sangare and Carlos Espí to senior debuts alongside established youth integrations like Edgar Alcañiz and Xavi Grande. As of 2025, the continues scouting globally, with initiatives and yielding trial spots, though verifiable breakthroughs remain tied to domestic performers amid broader club promotion to . Current reserve squad members, including those from U-19 levels, show potential in metrics like and minutes logged, but sustained first-team progression depends on performance in fixtures.

Players on loan

As of October 2025, Levante UD has loaned out four young players to lower-division or international clubs to facilitate their development and gain competitive experience. These arrangements typically last until the end of the 2025–26 season, aligning with the club's strategy for squad management in .
PlayerPositionAgeLoaned toLoan Duration
Dani MartínGoalkeeper20 ()Until 30 June 2026
Xavi GrandeRight-back20 ()Until 30 June 2026
Edgar AlcañizCentral midfielder20 ()Until 30 June 2026
Paco CortésLeft winger18Cultural Leonesa ()Until 30 June 2026
These loans emphasize Levante's focus on graduates and fringe members, providing minutes in competitive environments without permanent transfers. For instance, Dani Martín, a product of the club's , joined to compete for playing time behind established keepers, following prior loans that honed his skills. Similarly, Paco Cortés debuted for Leonesa shortly after his move, integrating into a team aiming for promotion. No senior first-team players are currently loaned out, reflecting Levante's promotion to and need for depth.

Players whose contracts expire on 30 June 2026

The following Levante UD players have contracts set to expire on 30 June 2026. Some are on loan with buy options or club extensions possible.
PlayerPositionNotes
Manu SánchezLeft-BackOption to buy
Alan MatturroCentre-BackOption to buy
Matías MorenoCentre-BackBuy-option with buy-back option
Ugo RaghouberDefensive Midfield-
Mathew RyanGoalkeeperOption for a further year
Adrián DelaCentre-BackClub option 1 year
Pablo MartínezCentral Midfield-
Unai VencedorCentral Midfield-
Iker LosadaSecond Striker-
Diego PampínLeft-Back-
Kareem TundeRight WingerClub option 3 years
José Luis MoralesCentre-Forward-

Notable former players and their impacts

, the Costa Rican goalkeeper, joined Levante UD in 2011 and became the first-choice keeper by the season, appearing in 41 matches that year while leading the league with 95 saves and earning a nomination for the league's best goalkeeper award. His exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping ability contributed to 15 clean sheets across 104 total La Liga outings for the club, bolstering a defense that helped Levante avoid relegation despite limited resources, and his performances directly facilitated his high-profile transfer to Real Madrid in 2014 for €10 million. Gustavo Reggi, an Argentine forward, netted 58 goals in 134 appearances from 2002 to 2006, including decisive strikes that propelled Levante's promotion to in the 2003–04 season after a 39-year top-flight absence. His prolific scoring, often in critical promotion playoffs and league matches, marked him as a cornerstone of the club's resurgence from Segunda División B to the elite level, with his clinical finishing providing the offensive firepower absent in prior campaigns. Sergio Ballesteros, a Valencia-born center-back, logged over 300 appearances across two spells at Levante (1998–2002 and 2009–2015), captaining the side during their maiden Europa League group stage qualification in 2012–13, where they advanced to the round of 16 before elimination by Rubin Kazan. As a defensive anchor and leader, he featured in the 2009–10 promotion push and amassed 387 total games lifetime, his tenacity and aerial dominance stabilizing the backline amid frequent top-flight battles for survival. Vicente Iborra, a homegrown midfielder, racked up 228 matches for Levante between 2004 and 2014, offering robust tackling and passing in midfield that supported the club's transition from promotion contenders to established La Liga participants, including survival in the 2010–11 season. His physical presence and organizational skills, honed from academy roots, laid groundwork for later successes like the 2017 promotion, before his move to Sevilla yielded three Europa League titles elsewhere. Johan Cruyff, the Dutch icon, appeared in 10 matches for Levante during the 1980–81 season, debuting on March 1, 1981, in a 1–0 victory over Palencia CF and scoring twice overall, though injuries and disputes curtailed his involvement after a brief half-season stint. While his on-pitch influence was modest amid the club's struggles in the second tier, Cruyff's signing elevated Levante's visibility and attracted media attention during a lean period, symbolizing an ambitious yet fleeting high-profile acquisition.

Management and staff

Current coaching and technical staff

As of October 2025, Julián Calero serves as of Levante UD, having been appointed on 1 July 2024 with a contract extending to 30 June 2026. The coaching staff includes:
  • Assistant head coach: Carlos García ().
  • Fitness coach: Vicente Benítez (), appointed 19 February 2024.
  • Goalkeeping coach: Borja Montero (), appointed 6 December 2024 following the departure of Dani Ayora to the sporting department.
  • Chief analyst: Ignacio Aizpurúa (), in role since 1 July 2019.
PositionNameNationalityAppointment Date
Head coachJulián Calero1 July 2024
Assistant head coachCarlos GarcíaN/A
Fitness coachVicente Benítez19 February 2024
Goalkeeping coachBorja Montero6 December 2024
Chief analystIgnacio Aizpurúa1 July 2019

Historical managers and their tenures

Levante UD's managerial record features frequent short-term appointments, particularly during spells in the lower divisions, reflecting the club's financial and performance challenges. Over 50 coaches have led the team since the 1930s, with tenures averaging under two years for many in the mid-20th century. Notable early figures include Antonin Fivebr, the club's first professional manager from July 1931 to June 1933, and José Redó from 1942 to 1944, who navigated regional leagues post-Civil War. In the Primera División era of the , Enrique Orizaola managed from 1964 to 1965 amid relegation battles. The 1970s–1990s were marked by instability, exemplified by Pachín's three stints (1979–1981, 1984–1985, 1987–1988), during which the club oscillated between and Segunda B.
ManagerNationalityTenure
Manolo PreciadoJuly 2003 – June 2004
July 2004 – May 2005
May–June 2005
ManéJuly 2005 – June 2006
López CaroJuly 2006 – January 2007
Abel ResinoJanuary–October 2007
October 2007 – April 2008
José MorenoApril–June 2008
Luis GarcíaJuly 2008 – June 2011
July 2011 – June 2013
Joaquín CaparrósJuly 2013 – June 2014
July–October 2014
October 2014 – October 2015
RubiOctober 2015 – June 2016
Juan MuñizJuly 2016 – March 2018
Paco LópezMarch 2018 – October 2021
Javier PereiraOctober–November 2021
Alessio LisciNovember 2021 – June 2022
July–October 2022
Felipe (interim)October 2022
October 2022 – February 2024
FelipeFebruary–June 2024
This table covers managers from the early 2000s onward, a period of two promotions to (2004 and 2010) and sustained top-flight presence until 2022; Juan Ignacio Martínez's spell yielded the club's record points total in Primera División (54 in 2011–12). Earlier records show even greater fragmentation, with over 30 coaches between 1970 and 2000, often lasting months due to relegations and limited resources.

Organizational and financial aspects

Ownership structure and governance

Levante Unión Deportiva, S.A.D. is structured as a sociedad anónima deportiva, a legal form for Spanish football clubs requiring share-based and adherence to sports federation regulations, with capital divided into ordinary shares held by private investors rather than public trading. The club's governance follows corporate norms under Spanish law, featuring a (Consejo de Administración) elected by shareholders at annual or extraordinary general meetings (Junta General de Accionistas), which approve key decisions such as budgets, capital increases, and . As of October 21, 2025, José Danvila holds the majority stake, approximately 70% of shares, achieved through his company Bizas by capitalizing €14 million in loans previously extended to the club amid financial restructuring efforts. This marked the first single majority owner in nearly two decades, following a period of dispersed ownership among minority holders; prior significant stakeholders included the Levante UD Foundation (also known as Cent Anys Foundation) and various individual investors, with no entity exceeding . The foundation retains a minority position, preserving some institutional influence, while other shareholders participated in a 2024 capital increase to maintain proportional holdings post-Danvila's infusions. The board of directors, renewed in a March 2024 shareholders' meeting and stable into 2025, is led by President Pablo Sánchez Morante, an economist and long-term club supporter appointed in September 2023, who oversees strategic direction. CEO José Danvila, leveraging his majority ownership, manages day-to-day operations and financial strategy, including debt conversion and viability plans approved unanimously (96.27% in favor) at the October 21, 2025, . Key board roles include Braulio Pastor Mula (also futsal section president), alongside members such as Maribel Vilaplana (communications), Ruth García (women's football oversight, pre-dissolution), and financial experts like David Gómez Blasco, ensuring a mix of , legal, and club-insider expertise for compliance and . This structure emphasizes shareholder accountability, with recent assemblies focusing on €107 million in historic debt management through equity swaps and operational efficiencies.

Financial history and debt management

In 2008, following relegation to the Segunda División, Levante UD entered insolvency proceedings with accumulated debts totaling approximately €85 million, prompting a creditors' meeting in a Valencia court. The club restructured its finances through cost controls, youth academy development, and player sales, enabling promotion to La Liga in 2010 and a brief stint at the league's summit in 2011. This period marked a shift toward a sustainable model emphasizing internal revenue generation over heavy spending, which allowed Levante to avoid further administrations despite ongoing revenue fluctuations tied to promotion-relegation cycles. After relegation from in 2022, Levante faced renewed distress, with debts surpassing €100 million by late 2023 amid operational shortfalls and delayed payments. In response, club director José Danvila proposed a viability plan in early 2024, injecting €6 million initially to cover short-term obligations, followed by €23 million in structured financing linked to acquiring player rights credits. The Levante UD Foundation approved this reprofiling strategy in March 2024, incorporating €13.8 million in shareholder support to gradually deleverage through extended maturities and asset optimization. By October 2025, as part of ongoing , Levante sold its women's football section for €4.5 million, contributing to a broader program projected to reduce total debt by over 50% within eight years via revenue stabilization and non-core divestitures. This approach, building on post-2008 lessons, prioritizes compliance and management over aggressive borrowing, though it relies heavily on promotional success for long-term viability. Annual financial reports for 2022/23 highlighted persistent challenges in non-current assets and liquidity, underscoring the need for continued creditor negotiations.

Women's section and its dissolution (1909–2025)

The women's section of Levante UD traces its roots to the absorption of San Vicente CFF in 1998, a club founded in 1993 that had achieved immediate success by winning Spain's national women's championship in its debut top-flight season. This integration marked the formal establishment of , which competed in the (later rebranded as ) and became one of Spain's pioneering women's teams to participate in qualifiers. Early years saw competitive performance, with the team establishing a reputation for developing talent and maintaining mid-to-upper table positions amid growing professionalization of . From the early 2000s onward, experienced a period of sustained contention, frequently finishing in the top half of the league standings and contributing players to the Spanish national team. The section emphasized youth development, hosting exhibition matches tied to club foundations and community initiatives, such as tributes to its historical contributions on events. However, by the mid-2010s, results declined amid broader club financial pressures, leading to mid-table finishes and player departures; for instance, in the lead-up to the 2025–26 season, at least four key players, including Paula Fernández who transferred to , were confirmed not to renew contracts. Persistent economic challenges at Levante UD, including pre- negotiations initiated in March 2025 and mounting debts, culminated in the section's dissolution through sale as part of a comprehensive financial . On October 13, 2025, the club finalized the divestiture of for €4.5 million to an undisclosed buyer, enabling debt repayment to creditors and compliance with LaLiga oversight requirements prior to any ownership transfers in the men's section. This move followed earlier cost-cutting measures, such as the non-renewal of Ángel Saiz in June 2025 and delays in appointing a replacement, reflecting prioritized fiscal survival over maintaining the women's program amid winless starts and declining on-pitch form. The transaction underscored systemic vulnerabilities in Spanish club finances, where secondary sections like women's teams often bear the brunt of risks.

Controversies and challenges

Match-fixing allegations and investigations

In April 2011, drew 1–1 away to Levante UD in a match on the final day of the 2010–11 season, securing Zaragoza's survival while Levante had already avoided relegation. Spanish authorities later investigated allegations that Zaragoza executives had arranged illicit payments totaling approximately €1.7 million to Levante players to influence the outcome in Zaragoza's favor, with funds allegedly transferred via undeclared cash bonuses deposited into players' accounts the day after the match. The probe, initiated by president in 2013 after discovering suspicious bank transfers, expanded under Spain's Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office, citing evidence from of players' financial records and witness testimonies suggesting the payments bypassed official club channels. The investigation implicated 41 individuals, including Zaragoza players such as Gabi Fernández and Ander Herrera, coach Javier Aguirre, and Levante players like Sergio Ballesteros and Juanfran, with claims that the bribes disguised as "primas" (bonuses) aimed to ensure Zaragoza earned at least a point. Levante UD cooperated fully, denying institutional involvement and attributing any irregularities to individual actions, while Zaragoza maintained the payments were legitimate motivational incentives amid financial distress. In 2017, a Valencia court initially shelved the case for insufficient evidence of criminal intent, but it proceeded to trial; on December 9, 2019, a judge acquitted all 41 defendants, ruling that while irregular payments occurred, prosecutors failed to prove match-fixing or corruption under Spanish law (Article 318 bis of the Penal Code, enacted in 2010). Separate scrutiny arose in April 2013 over Levante's 0–4 home defeat to , amid suspicions of unusual betting patterns and Levante's need for points to stay in ; Spain's Office examined the fixture but found no substantiation for fixing claims. In 2013, Levante Barkero faced isolated accusations linked to potential irregularities in prior matches, though the club distanced itself, and no formal charges resulted. confirmed in February 2023 an ongoing probe into a 2016 tie where Levante defeated CD Huracán Melilla 8–0, alleging historic fixing by , but Levante was not implicated as the beneficiary or participant. These episodes, while cleared, highlighted broader vulnerabilities in Spanish football to financial pressures and undeclared incentives, with no sanctions imposed on Levante UD.

Refereeing disputes and on-pitch incidents

In the match against on August 23, 2025, referee awarded Levante UD a penalty in first-half stoppage time for a by Barcelona defender , which José Luis Morales converted to extend Levante's lead to 2-0. The decision, confirmed after VAR review, sparked debate as Barcelona coach and players argued it was not deliberate, while former referee Iturralde González described it as non-penalizable due to the ball's proximity and Balde's proximity to the play. subsequently released VAR audio, with officials asserting the arm's unnatural position warranted the call, though the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) later acknowledged broader scrutiny of such incidents amid season-wide criticism of inconsistent rulings. Similar refereeing tensions arose in Levante's 1-4 home defeat to Real Madrid on September 23, 2025, where a penalty was awarded against Levante following a foul on , contributing to Real Madrid's dominance. Levante captain Miguel Elgezabal, who received a yellow card for the challenge, later criticized for provocative on-pitch behavior, including gestures that escalated tensions, though no further disciplinary action was reported beyond the booking. Earlier in the 2024-25 campaign, Levante contested a 1-0 loss to on February 4, 2024, alleging a missed in Espanyol's immediately preceding a penalty awarded against Levante, which proved decisive; club statements highlighted the sequence as symptomatic of recurring officiating errors costing points. Historically, Levante has been involved in on-pitch altercations, notably after the November 11, 2012, draw with Real Madrid (1-1), where Cristiano Ronaldo's 92nd-minute equalizer followed referee leniency on a prior foul; post-whistle, Real Madrid's clashed with Levante's Sergio Ballesteros in the tunnel amid reports of simmering on-field disputes, prompting Real Madrid to complain about officiating while Levante responded with an ironic statement mocking the accusations. In a 2019 encounter against on August 23, Villarreal decried referee decisions in their 2-1 loss to Levante, including overlooked penalties, though Levante maintained the calls were correct. Levante officials have periodically documented patterns of adverse rulings, such as in the 2023-24 season where six matches allegedly featured errors costing points, but independent reviews like CTA reports have upheld most decisions while admitting isolated lapses.

Fan and internal club conflicts

In the late 2000s, Levante UD faced significant internal tensions due to chronic financial instability, culminating in disputes between players and club management over unpaid wages and bonuses. In April 2008, following relegation from , the entire squad threatened an indefinite strike starting with their match against , citing months of delayed payments; the action was averted after management pledged to settle the debts. Similar pressures persisted into 2010, when players announced a 48-hour strike threat ahead of a Primera División fixture against , again over outstanding salaries, highlighting ongoing cash flow issues that strained relations within the club. Fan conflicts have occasionally erupted, often involving visiting supporters rather than Levante's own groups, amid Spain's broader history of football-related . In December 2009, prior to a La Liga derby against , clashes between Levante fans and Getafe supporters in led to police intervention and the arrest of 11 Getafe fans for public disorder. More recently, in July 2025, incidents marred a preseason friendly between Levante UD and CD , involving fan disturbances that underscored persistent risks around matches, though specifics on instigators remain limited. Levante's supporter base, lacking the notoriety of groups at larger Valencia rivals, has generally avoided systemic internal fan divisions or widespread protests against club leadership, with tensions more tied to external rivalries than organized intra-club strife.

References

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