Discover the secrets of Diego Alves

Valencia CF has had many great goalkeepers throughout its history, and one of them is undoubtedly Diego Alves. The Brazilian shot-stopper played 175 official matches during his six seasons with the club (2011–2017), making him the sixth goalkeeper with the most appearances in the Club's history.

One of his most outstanding qualities was his penalty-saving ability, which earned him the nickname “parapenaltis” (penalty-stopper). In LaLiga, he saved 22 of the 45 penalties he faced — a success rate of nearly 50%.“It’s a mental duel where the kicker wants me to go one way, and I want him to shoot where I’m going to be,” said Alves in an interview with VCF Media. “I always tried to get close to the kicker to feel their state (nervous, calm…), and I’d always give them some kind of information to make them think while walking to the ball. Over time, with my reputation for saving penalties, I also played with that. The taker would be more nervous.”

The perfect Valencia CF goalkeeper

Diego Alves has put together what he considers the ideal goalkeeper for Valencia CF, combining the best qualities from several standout keepers.