Goalkeeper Neto insists he is not daunted by the challenge facing him at Valencia. “Competition? I had Buffon at Juventus…”
Neto completed his transfer to Valencia on Friday evening, signing a four-year contract in a deal reportedly worth €9m, and he was presented to the Spanish media shortly after.
“Why Valencia? They wanted me a lot. When I learned about Valencia’s interest, I put everything else to one side,” began the Brazilian, who is set to replace Diego Alves as Los Che’s No 1.
“They’re a very important club with a lot of history, and I feel like writing some more history here.
“How I’d describe myself? I don’t like that, I prefer to show what I’m like on the pitch, although I think I have pace and a lot of technique. I leave the rest to other people.
“I want to do everything possible to take Valencia to where they deserve.
“Prepared for competition? I had Buffon at Juventus. The main thing in football is to compete, work hard and grow.
“Marcelino? He was crucial in me coming here. He gave me this chance. I want to convey everything I have inside. It’s great for me that Marcelino is at Valencia.
“My perfect Spanish? I’ve played with many Argentine and Spanish players. I’d be the only Brazilian, so I had to learn. I also wanted to learn it so I’d be prepared to meet the club’s objectives.
“My experience at Juve? It was crucial for me. I knew the responsibility I had.
“We played in seven competitions and won five of them. It was important that I tested myself. I didn’t feel like a backup goalkeeper.
“My objective is to start from scratch and take Valencia to the position they deserve and will be in.”
