Castillejo: "Any player would want to play for a club like Valencia CF"

Samu Castillejo participated in a press conference with the media after the official announcement of his signing for Valencia CF for the next three seasons, through to June 30th, 2025.

What is the reason for your taking this step and returning to LaLiga?

I think any Spanish player would want to play for a club like Valencia CF. Corona had already shown interest in December, but it didn't go through because an agreement between the clubs was not reached. Coming here was my first choice. I have made a lot of effort to come here and I am very happy.

What has Gattuso told you about Valencia CF?

I already know the coach from our time at AC Milan. He told me that he was very happy, that the club works like a big club and that he would not hesitate to come here if he were me. He said he wants to build a good group to take the team to where it deserves.

Gattuso said that he wanted players who had 'failed' but now believe. How much do you want to show the best of you?

I always believe a lot in myself. This last year there have been other things that have happened besides the sporting aspect, but I have always been the first when it comes to working hard, and when it has been my time to play I have always been prepared. I come here with a great desire to succeed and enjoy myself.

Why was Valencia CF your first choice?

Because it's Valencia CF, and any player would want to play for a club like Valencia CF.

How do you describe yourself as a player?
I am 27 years old and I have experience of having played with very good players. I'm hungry, I want to work hard and I hope to show the group that when United we can achieve many things.

What collective and individual goals do you have?

The main objective is to get back into Europe and my personal objective is to help the team to achieve that.

You alluded to your experience. How has Samu Castillejo changed since his last time in LaLiga?

All players mature over the years and change how they are on the pitch, but the desire, the ambition and the will to win are always the same.

What do you remember about your debut at Mestalla?

This club brings back very good memories, because Mestalla was the first stadium I set foot in as a professional footballer. Whenever you come here as an opposing team,  it's uncomfortable, because the fans push their team a lot. Having them on my side is a joy.

What is your preferred position?

My favourite role is right winger, but I am available for whatever the coach wants. I want to work hard and be able to play.

How have your teammates welcomed you?

Very well. It looks like there is a good group here. There are young players. They like to work. They have welcomed me very well and I am very happy.

Is Gattuso a tough coach who brings out the best in the squad?

As a coach he is the same as he was as a player. He is very close to the players and he knows how to treat them on a personal level. The other day I arrived very early, I did the medical tests and he told me that I had to train in the afternoon.

What can you offer the team?

My game is very spectacular, going one- on-one with people. I will try to contribute in the attack, and I hope that I can provide assists and goals.

To what extent has Gattuso been important in your coming to Valencia CF? How long have Valencia CF been in contact with you?

This has been a club in which I have always been in contact. My agent knows that it is a club that I wanted to come to. We tried to make it happen. The coach helped make it easier because of his relationship with AC Milan, and I provided the other part. I have done everything in my power to be here today.

Has any teammate impressed you?

There are very good players and a very intense level of work. I come from working with very good players, but I have been surprised by the technical and tactical level of the team, what we can improve and what we can achieve.

Has Gattuso conveyed to you that goal is to get into Europe?

Yes. Also, knowing the coach and his winning mentality, he wouldn't go to a club that doesn't have that ambition and desire to be in Europe. Not only does he have to do the work, but we players have to do well, make a good group and pull in the same direction

From the outside, how did you see Valencia CF's season last year? What did you perceive?
Last year they were not in Europe, but they played a Copa del Rey final. They have been there and they have always competed. It is clear that all of the teams want to be in Europe and it is our idea to do that this year.