Jaume Costa: "I've never forgotten where I came from"

Wednesday was a day of dejá vú for Jaume Costa, who returned to the Ciudad Deportiva for the first time in just over a decade. He was undertaking his first training session back, under a coach whom he knows well, and the defender gave his opinions on the day in his official presentation press conference.

"It was strange to be back at the Ciudad Deportiva after 10 years away, because I was taking the same route as before, going down the ramp, going through the gates... It was strange, but exciting at the same time. The facilities have changed a lot, but there are a lot of people who have been here for more than ten years; however many years go by, friendships and good people remain," he told the press.

"The feeling was really positive in my first training session. I knew all the staff and the physios, and I've even played with the likes of Denis Cheryshev and Jaume Domenech before. I'm very grateful to everyone; I was a little nervous this morning, but that went away quickly."

"I've forged a career for myself over the past 10 years, but I've never forgotten where I came from. I spent my childhood here and it's an honour to return to Valencia CF."

Costa has rejoined the club on a loan deal for the coming season, and although he was asked about the possibility of a longer stay by journalists, he is focused on the task at hand.

"My idea is to compete and give everything for the team, and I'm looking no further than that. I live in the present -the here and now.

"I've spoken with Marcelino about what each of us wants, and now it's time to get down to work. We want to start the season well, which will benefit everybody."

Asked about when he expects to be fully up to speed with the team and Marcelino's methods, Costa was optimistic that it will be an easy readaptation.

"When you've spent a few years without working with the same coach, you might not lose what he has made automatic, but you do forget it slightly. I love the way the coach works and I identify a lot with it. I'm here to work, to compete and to be prepared to give my all."