Mouctar Diakhaby says he ‘can’t wait’ to fight for his place at Valencia after completing his €15m transfer from Olympique Lyonnais.
Diakhaby has signed a five-year contract with Valencia, which includes a €100m release clause, and the France Under-21 defender is keen to make up for lost time after starting just eight League games for Lyon last season.
“I’ve already talked to the Coach, it was a very easy decision for me to choose Valencia and I’m very happy to be here,” he told reporters.
“The negotiations started in the second half of last season, and from the first moment I met the directors of Valencia, I was very interested in becoming a part of this project.
“I’m not worried about the price, it’s not my responsibility. That’s for the club. I’m just here to play and that's what I’m going to do.
“It’s true that there are some quality players with experience in my position, but for a team to improve, it’s important that there’s a lot of competition.
“It’s true that two years ago I played more [compared to last season], but I’ve still played at a high level in enough games.
“It’s up to the Coach, who chose other players, but you have to respect him and keep working.
“I have no points of reference, but I look at great players who play for great teams. I’m an athletic player and I have no problems playing from the back.
“I know what Valencia expect of me and I hope to give the best of myself, help my teammates and give everything on the pitch so we can reach our objectives.
“I’m very happy to be at this great Spanish club and I can’t wait to start playing.”
