Jaume Domènech: "I am working with all my might to return in the best shape of my career"

Jaume Domènech appeared in a press conference after signing his renewal with Valencia CF until June 30th, 2024.

Are you excited about your renewal?

I've been in a daze since yesterday. Watching the video, listening to the president, seeing my idol and my family here is all very exciting.

How is your recovery going?

When you get injured, you have a difficult 24 hours on a mental level in which you analyse what has happened to you. From there I began to talk to doctors and physios because I did not face it just as a recovery process, but a chance to reinvent myself. I want to recover and come back even better. To be in the best form of my career. I will use all my might to return.

How do you feel being able to share this day with your family?

The most beautiful thing about today is being able to share it with them. My parents gave me the education and the values to fight for what I dream about. I am very happy that they are here.

What do you think about having your idol here: Andrés Palop?

For me he is the greatest. I have always admired him. I saw him in goal and he always caught my attention, I tried to copy him. I have always identified with him. It was love at first sight. He is my main reference.

What does Forment mean to you?

Forment is the one who opened the doors to the other kids from Almenara. He is the pioneer for everyone, for me and for all the kids in Almenara.

When will you return to action?

We are in a process. We are still working in the gym and the pool. The first month was difficult because I was in a lot of pain and couldn't do much work. But now my knee is responding very well. I'll start running soon. The medical services transmit a lot of positivity to me. They say that it is going very well and that we are on track. It is too soon to know when I will be able to play again.

Do you dream of retiring at Valencia CF?

I have been at the club for ten seasons. In one of the first interviews after making my debut and I always said that my dream was to play for Valencia CF all my life. For me it was a dream, to go down in history, to win trophies, and I'm fulfilling it. We are going little by little, working day by day.

Do you always have to prove yourself at Valencia CF?

At a club like Valencia CF there is always a lot of competition. I wasn't ready to come through when I did, but I took my chance. Valencia CF must always have great goalkeepers and I accept that. I work to be available to contribute, whether playing or on the bench.

In the summer you said you couldn't see yourself playing for another team. After the injury, did you even consider that could change?

No. At no time. Valencia CF called me and told me not to worry and that everything was clear. I want to thank the president, Corona and the coach because they have taken care of me from the first minute. I have no words to thank for how they have taken care of me. It has been unanimous support. They show it to me every day and for me it is very important that Valencia CF is a family and something powerful is being created to achieve sporting objectives.

How has Gattuso's role been in your recovery?

I was on vacation and received a call from the coach. We talked for five or six minutes and a connection emerged. He has that identity and those values that coincide with mine, of living every day to the fullest and for football. He explained to me his ideas to implement in the team and I agreed with him. From the first minute we worked together to achieve that discipline and commitment and enjoy doing it. It has helped me a lot in carrying on normally during the first few months, which have been the hardest.

How long do you expect to be at Valencia CF? 

The renewal is a number until 2024 but I have renewed many times and I have not had any problems with the club. In 2024 we will sit down again and if both parties want to continue, then we will continue. 

Is there a standout factor of your time at the club?

I have always felt that being honest, doing what you feel, there will be people who think it is right or wrong, but if you are true to yourself you have nothing to justify. How can I not stand up for Valencia CF if Valencia CF is everything to me? It's not an effort for me.

How is your relationship with Iago Herrerín?

Iago is a great teammate. He contributes and I have a magnificent relationship with him. I am delighted that he has received my number.

What should the objective for Valencia CF be?

I couldn't say a specific goal. The aim is to follow the path we are following. Build a Valencia CF with identity, with a strong and solid style. Valencia CF are a big club and we want to be in Europe. We have a young team and more than setting ourselves a short term target, we must maintain the block, build a solid team and settle where we want to be.