The Champions League returned to Mestalla on Wednesday night, and so did a legendary figure from the stadium and the competition itself. One of Valencia CF's greatest ever players, Roberto Ayala was in attendance to watch the match against Ajax, and he spoke to VCF Media after the game.

"There are many emotions that you feel when you come to the stadium and remember what you've experienced. Above all the affection shown by the fans when they recognise you on the street. Many years have gone by, but that affection is still the same," said the Argentine, who had been back in the city most recently for the club's Centenary celebrations.

"Every game that I was able to play for this club was a pleasure. They were wonderful years in my career, and those memories are something that I will keep forever. Every time that I come to Valencia, the people make me feel that those years were amazing."

"Many memories come flooding back when I visit this stadium, and when I experience it from another place -above all when I watch from the stands. I remember wonderful nights that we enjoyed on the pitch, and which the fans also enjoyed a lot. It's beautiful, and it's also beautiful to have the club in the Champions League now," added the former defender, who won a host of honours with Valencia CF during his seven years with them.