Joaquín: "Valencia CF-Real Betis will be a special match. Feelings are going to run deep" 

Valencia CF will welcome Real Betis to the Camp de Mestalla this coming Saturday, 23 November at 2 pm kick-off time. Former Valencia CF and Real Betis player, Joaquín Sánchez, has analysed the game on L'Informatiu on VCF Radio. 

Flash floods (DANA)

‘I spent five years at Valencia CF and I have a relationship with many teammates and friends and some have been more affected than others, but fortunately, they are alive, which is the most important thing and they are recovering from the tragedy. You never expect to live through these circumstances and face this tragedy, which unfortunately we have all suffered in some way. Those affected are the whole of the Valencia region, but we have suffered and we have tried to help as much as possible from a distance, whether it be financially from Real Betis or with clothes, medicines... anything we could help to overcome these very complicated circumstances.

Food collection at the Benito Villamarín and at Mestalla

‘We got going as soon as we could with clothes, masks, and everything we could help with and send it as soon as possible. All the Spanish people have turned out in force and that makes us strong. Mestalla has been a ground that I have enjoyed for five seasons and not to have that atmosphere every weekend with your team.

A special match

‘Above all, because of the feelings that have been experienced, which will run deep. The build-up will be different, and it will also be a special match. will be different and it will also be a special match. Once the referee blows the first whistle, the players will try to play their game, but it will be a match marked by what has happened. It's especially nice for me because it's always nice to return to what was my home and to meet up with my former teammates, but it's also marked by the feeling that we're going to experience and that will be running deep.

Visit of the Real Betis Foundation to several affected schools

‘There are several events. One of them in the morning and we are going to try to do everything we can to pay tribute to the affected Valencian towns and we will try to be close to the people and make our feelings known.

Fanbase' affection

‘They transmit it to me every time I come back. I'm coming back now retired, but I will feel the same warmth and affection. Valencia and its people have always treated me great, every time I go I feel at home and I enjoy it. I have wonderful people and it's always special.