The agreement was formalised at the Ciudad Deportiva de Paterna on Tuesday, with Otorbi joined by his parents, representative Nacho Gallart and club officials. The extension reinforces Valencia’s faith in a player who has progressed from the academy into the senior set-up and has attracted attention from outside Spain.
Otorbi became the youngest player to make an official first-team appearance for Valencia, debuting at 16 years, two months and 19 days. He has since continued to move between the senior squad and Valencia Mestalla, gaining experience while developing his game on the right flank.
His progress has also been noticed by clubs elsewhere in Europe. MARCA recently reported that Newcastle United had been monitoring the winger, with representatives watching him during Valencia Mestalla’s meeting with Racing Santander at El Sardinero. That reported scouting interest has not, however, resulted in a confirmed offer.
The contract news comes alongside a setback for the youngster. Valencia confirmed on Tuesday that medical tests had identified a muscle injury in his right thigh, sustained during Saturday’s match against Villarreal. The club said he would undergo medical treatment, physiotherapy and rehabilitation at its training ground until his condition improves.
No precise return date has been announced. The original report suggested he could be out for more than a month, but Valencia have not confirmed that timeframe, leaving the length of his absence uncertain.
The injury interrupts Otorbi’s efforts to build momentum in a season in which he has been involved with both the first team and the reserve side. The club’s decision to secure his future now nevertheless signals that it sees his development as a long-term project rather than a short-term opportunity.
Valencia have increasingly looked to protect young players with potential resale value and first-team prospects, and Otorbi’s new deal gives them greater security should interest from abroad develop into formal approaches.
For the winger, the immediate priority is recovery. For Valencia, the extension means a period on the sidelines will not alter the club’s longer-term commitment to a player who has already made history with his early senior debut.
