Valencia boss Albert Celades was forced to attend the club's Champions League press conference without any of his players after they chose to boycott the media event because of the sacking of their previous coach.
The La Liga side axed manager Marcelino last week despite the Brazilian leading the club to the Copa Del Rey trophy and Champions League qualification during the prior season.
Celedes, who was previously an assistant at Real Madrid, was installed into the role for last weekend's league match against Barcelona, which the club lost 5-2.