3 changes Valencia can expect with Prandelli at the helm

Valencia has appointed former Italy boss Cesare Prandelli as its newest manager, and the experienced 59-year-old must now guide an under-performing side back to the upper echelons of Spanish football, following the sacking of Pako Ayestaran.

Here are three changes Valencia fans can expect to see under Prandelli:

Plenty of passing

Prandelli's style has often been compared to Barcelona's "Tiki Taka" football, and while Italian by blood, Prandelli's management style should mesh well in Spain. "It's always been said that my style of play is quite Spanish," he said. "Now we will see."

Though similar, Prandelli's system is played to a slower tempo - one that's calmer and requires more decisive passing combinations. Having Andrea Pirlo in midfield certainly helped in that regard with Italy, but Valencia - currently 15th in La Liga - does not possess a player of similar quality. Still, the squad currently ranks ninth overall in passes completed, averaging 429 per match.

It's a good base to build on, and Prandelli will count on Dani Parejo's and Enzo Perez's experience to connect his midfield, before acquiring reinforcements in the next transfer window.

Willingness to adjust tactics

While Prandelli's basic principles can be summed up as pass-heavy attacking football with intent, the Italian tactician can implement that system in various ways, while keeping player roles firm.

Prandelli is not married to any one particular formation and has shown willingness to adjust to his player's strengths. He's even implemented unorthodox formations off the cuff, such as a 4-1-3-1-1 during the 2014 World Cup.

Because Valencia has undergone so much change since 2012, players have been shuffled all across the field. Bringing back a semblance of consistency with firm roles, while adjusting tactically, should be well received on the training grounds - it will, at least, help boost confidence.

Arrival of real leadership

Unlike the managers before him in recent years, Prandelli is an established figure, and brings a wealth of knowledge born from a well-traveled playing and coaching career. He also does not seem to have a prior association with owner Peter Lim.

Ever-fiery and now angered Valencia supporters have grown wary of Lim's promises and excuses; Prandelli brings his own style, has earned his own reputation, and most importantly, commands his own respect, something these players sorely needed after enduring a carousel of pundits and part-timers.

As such, fans can expect to see Prandelli become the focal point of the club, moving the cameras away from Lim, who has grown far too present a figure over the last few seasons. He'll also be motivated to redeem himself after being sacked by Italy, and later Galatasaray.

Valencia fans can certainly understand that desire for redemption.