Jordi Alba announces his retirement from professional football
The decorated Spanish defender joined Valencia CF at the age of 18, the Club where he grew and was given the opportunity to make his LALIGA debut
Toni Lato, who reached 100 appearances with the Valencia CF first team against Cádiz CF, spoke to VCF Media after the final whistle.
A setback
We came here for the three points, which gave us a lot of peace of mind. We made mistakes that we knew we couldn't afford to make in this type of match, in this type of 'final' in which both teams have a lot at stake. That is what killed us, because in the end you are going against the current. When we start to play and are ourselves, we can restrain teams, have chances and start to get into the game. We cannot start like we did, and the second half was the same. It's a shame because we could have taken a very, very big step forward.
Maximum confidence
I have no doubts about my teammates. When we start to play, when we are ourselves, when we go after the opposition from the beginning, we can stop any team and even have chances. However, when you start out losing the game it is very difficult. They know how to play these kinds of games. It is difficult to control the tempo well. But of course I am confident in the team. On Wednesday we have another final, it's a derby and we have to go for the three points no matter what.
All together
The fans are incredible: Being in the hotel and listening to their chants, having travelled for however many hours on the bus; the reception we had in Elche; 42,000 people at Mestalla on a weekday at 7pm the other day... It's incredible. We can't ask them for anything more. We just want them to be there and to keep helping us, because all together we are going to get out of this situation. On Wednesday we have to be all together because it is very important. At home we have to take a step forward for their sake, and go at Villarreal.
Latest news Ver todas
Exclusive for members
Founded in 1945, the Granada-based team plays in the Andalusian División de Honor and won the 2025 Andalusia Cup.
The CEO of Football talks to the media
The Valencia CF youth team will take part in this tournament in Florida (USA) from October 10 to 12
Official Partners