Thierry Correia signed a contract extension with Valencia CF earlier this week, and has no shortage of admirers for his performances over the past two seasons. His competitiveness and confidence have, as well as his physical development, have been vital to him taking a step up since arriving in Spain.

One of his former youth coaches at Sporting CP, Tiago Fernandes spoke to VCF MEDIA to express his praise for the Portuguese fullback.

“He is a player who always had a lot of desire to succeed, ever since he was little. He was completely devoted to football. Sometimes something didn't work out for him and he would get a little sad, but I was by his side when he needed it and helped him to believe in himself. Now he is reaping the rewards for all of his hard work and effort," explains the coach.

“He  was very focused and passionate about training. He lived in my house for three years, in order to be close to the academy at Sporting CP. He is a player for whom football comes first, second and third, and who trains every day as if it were the last."

Fernandes is also happy to see his former protege continuing at Valencia CF for many more years to come.

“Thierry has always made good decisions, and he always had his head screwed on. He is very strong mentally," he comments.

"He always wants more. He is not going to settle for things now that he has renewed his contract. Every player wants to win trophies. At Sporting CP, he won some trophies. Valencia CF are a competitive team and they can maybe win a cup. Thierry is going to fight hard to win silverware with Valencia CF."