Germán Valera’s Emotional Return to Mestalla

Returning to Mestalla is no ordinary match for Germán Valera. The Elche attacker openly admits, “Whenever you go back to a club where you have been, it is a special game.” This return is filled with emotions for a player who is well-acquainted with the demands of the Valencia environment, now facing the challenge from the opposite side while seeking his team’s first away victory: “We are trying to achieve our first win on the road, although we understand that Mestalla is a very challenging venue that exerts a lot of pressure.”

Valera does not anticipate a lukewarm reception. Quite the opposite. Despite Valencia’s current struggles, the winger is aware that the fans will be fully behind their team from the outset: “I believe that from the first moment, they will support their team. Their fans are very demanding, but they always strive to push for victory,” he states, speaking about the atmosphere he expects to encounter in a stadium he knows well.

He is also wary of the opposing team’s recent form. His past experiences with Valencia serve as a warning: “When a team comes off a streak like this, they can be even more dangerous.” Thus, his message is straightforward and resolute: “We need to be ourselves and play as we have been playing.”

On a personal level, Valera looks back to appreciate the transformation he has experienced this season. “The main thing is to feel comfortable, keep a clear head, and have confidence. When you come to a place where you feel happy and enjoy playing football, everything looks different,” he explains, asserting his growth and impact on the game.

His time at Valencia also lingers in his mind, particularly the honesty he encountered during that period: “It’s never pleasant to be told that you are not needed, but I appreciate the sincerity I was shown,” he recalls, revealing respect and maturity towards a past that now serves as his motivation.

With January approaching and Mestalla on the horizon, Valera summarizes his approach with a simple yet ambitious idea: “We need to take it match by match, strive to earn points, and maintain the momentum we had at the end of the year.” A special reunion, an outstanding challenge away from home, and a venue that requires no introduction; Mestalla awaits.