Van Oevelen: "I feel very welcome here"

Goalkeeper Kayne Van Oevelen talked to VCF Media after his arrival at Valencia CF was made official, expressing his happiness with the move.

Joining Valencia CF

“I’m doing well and my family are doing well. Everyone is very happy, including me. I’m really looking forward to getting onto the pitch to show what I can do and help the team. The city is truly fantastic. I’ve really enjoyed these first few hours here.”

Valencia

“I’ve been here many times on holiday. I always enjoy myself when I’m in Valencia. At the club, from the moment I arrived, it felt like there was already a family here. I feel very welcome.”

Adapting to the city

“I feel very welcome. It’s very hot here. In Holland it’s not always this hot, although it is in summer. Normally it’s a bit cooler.”

His qualities

“I’m a goalkeeper who likes to come out. I like to play with my feet, but I can also play long balls. I’m strong when dealing with crosses and in the air. I think I can help the team with my work rate, which is very high. Also, I think I’m a good teammate in the dressing room.”

His career so far

“Last year was the best year of my career to date. The year before that I also had a very good season, with many positive moments. The last season had its ups and downs, so it was also good for gaining experience. All of that is part of my journey and I hope to continue becoming a better player.”

Conversations with the coaching staff and Justin De Haas

“I spoke with the goalkeeping coach, Marcos Abad. He's a really nice guy and the meeting went very well. I also spoke with Carlos Corberán. He's a good guy and he instilled a lot of confidence in me. I also talked with Justin De Haas, my compatriot, a few days ago. He's nice and made me feel welcome here.”

Dutch players at Valencia CF

“I know many great players have played here. There have been Dutch players like Hedwiges Maduro. I’ve seen photos of him and the trophies the club have won, and I’m eager to help the team and Valencia CF achieve all that again.”

His influences as a goalkeeper

“Manuel Neuer. I think he may still be the best goalkeeper in the world. He’s very good with his feet. He’s perhaps the type of goalkeeper most like me when he comes off his line. He’s also a goalkeeper who plays high up the pitch.”

Changing position as a youth

“When I was younger, I had a trial with AZ Alkmaar, but they rejected me. The following year, I had another trial with FC Volendam as an outfield player, and they also turned me down. So, I told my father, ‘I don’t want to be an outfield player anymore,’ and I became a goalkeeper. A few years later, FC Volendam contacted me again, but this time as a goalkeeper, and they accepted me.”

His hobbies

“I like spending time with my girlfriend. We’re together practically 24/7. I also like playing PlayStation with my friends, playing padel, going to the movies, and going shopping.”

His favourite food

“I like fish: salmon, tuna, sushi, and paella too. And calamari is also very good.”

The last season at Mestalla

“I’m very happy to have arrived just in time to be able to play at Mestalla. I've also visited the stadium. It’s fantastic, and I can’t wait to see it again.”