How Abelardo's professional and human qualities typified the Valencia CF philosophy

The late Abelardo was a LaLiga and Copa del Rey winning goalkeeper with Valencia CF, but also continued to help young players in his position following his retirement. As a goalkeeping coach, he taught aspiring shot stoppers the skills, personality and mental fortitude required to play between the sticks for Valencia CF.

Aitor Bas, head of the VCF Academy’s goalkeeping department, says that “Today another legendary Valencia CF goalkeeper is shining down on us from above. I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting Abelardo in person. However, one of our colleagues, Javi Martí, was able to spend a lot of time with him, both as a player and a coach, and thanks to what he has told us we know that Abelardo was a great professional who stood out for his hard work, humility and discretion.”

Such values are characteristic of Valencia CF, where players are taught about the identity of the club and develop as people, as well as footballers, during their time at the VCF Academy. Young talents can aspire to replicate current homegrown success stories between the sticks such as Jaume Domènech and Cristian Rivero, and also legendary figures who continue to inspire, with Abelardo amongst them.