Anil Murthy: “Mangala and Costa’s talent and experience will help improve a great defence”

As part of a whirlwind 24 hours that saw Valencia CF sign two top quality defenders, Eliaquim Mangala and Jaume Costa were presented to the media on Wednesday afternoon. President Anil Murthy told the journalists in attendance what he believes the pair will bring to the back line this season, as they return for a second spell at the club.

“We are here to welcome Eliaquim and Jaume: Two players who are here to improve a great defence. Valencia CF conceded the second fewest goals in LaLiga last season, which is something that is a basic factor for achieving our objectives. These two players, through their talent and great experience, will help the team to achieve these aims,” Murthy commented.

“Mangala is already familiar with the league and the club. Besides his talent, he also has a keen desire to help Valencia CF again. He made his mark here before for his quality, professionalism and affection for the club, and he has kept ties with us from a distance since then.”

“His ambition and hard work, with the objective of showing the qualities that brought him to the elite level, is noteworthy. We want players here who never give up, and Mangala is an example of these values that have enabled the team to enjoy so much success. We are convinced that he is going to build on the positive memories that we have of him,” continued the club president, who also noted that Costa possesses the same qualities.

“I'm sure that Jaume is reliving a thousand memories of when he started his career here at Paterna, as part of the VCF Academy. He dreamed of one day reaching the first team. Although he achieved this before, in 2008, now he has the opportunity to offer his experience, motivation and passion for the club to a Champions League side who want to keep growing. I'm convinced that it is going to be a great season for him.”