Valencia have officially announced the signing of Arnaud Martinez, with a contract running until 2031.

Valencia CF officially announced that they have completed negotiations with Girona and finalized the transfer of Arnaud Martinez. The 23-year-old right-back, born on April 25, 2003, from Premia de Daal, Spain, will officially begin a new chapter at the Mestalla Stadium. According to the agreement, Arnaud Martinez has signed a five-year contract with Valencia, extending their partnership until 2031.  

The arrival of Arnaud Martinez has further strengthened Valencia's defense. This Spanish defender possesses strong adaptability, maintaining defensive stability while also demonstrating good physical strength and tactical execution. He can adjust his position and responsibilities according to the team's tactical requirements, providing the coaching staff with more diverse defensive options in different match situations.  

Arnaud Martinez has played for Girona since making his professional debut in 2020 after being promoted to the first team. Over the past few seasons, he has made 200 official appearances for Girona in various competitions, including La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the Champions League, and the Segunda División. Although still in the developmental stage of his career, his long and consistent first-team experience has given him a wealth of valuable match experience.  

Arnaud Martínez also boasts a rich football development background. Before entering professional football, he received youth training at both Barcelona and CE Ospitalet, laying the foundation for his future professional development. At the national team level, he was called up to the Spanish U19 and U21 teams, and represented Spain U21 in the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.  

With the official signing of Arnaud Martinez, Valencia's defensive lineup has been further strengthened. The Spanish defender is expected to provide more security for the team's defense with his ability and experience, and will also become an important player for head coach Carlos Corbelin in his lineup selection.  

Recalling his La Liga debut for Girona at Mestalla, Arnaul Martinez said, "It was my first time playing in La Liga, so stepping onto the pitch felt like a dream come true. What's even more special is that my debut happened in such a charming stadium as Mestalla. After the game, my family was in the stands, witnessing my first La Liga appearance. Starting my La Liga career in such a special venue is an unforgettable memory for me."  

“I’ve felt the unique atmosphere of this stadium even when I came here as an away team before. Now, I’m going to wear the Valencia jersey and play under the watchful eyes and support of the home fans. I really can’t imagine what that will be like. In the future, I can tell people that I once played for Valencia at Mestalla, which is something I cherish very much. I will do my best and hope to repay the team and the fans with excellent results.”  

“I’m very excited and looking forward to this new experience. This is the first time in my career that I’ve actually transferred from one club to another, so it’s inevitable that I’m a little nervous. But more than that, I feel excited. I understand the responsibility that this Valencia jersey carries, and I know what the outside world expects, but I can’t wait to make my official debut and hope to help the team and make the fans happy through my performance.”  

“I always maintain my maximum commitment in matches and am able to adjust my position and responsibilities according to the team’s needs. Last season, I played as a right-back, left-back, center-back, and even a midfielder. This multi-position experience has allowed me to accumulate different match experiences and gradually become a more complete player. After arriving at Valencia, I hope to first help the team while continuing to improve myself, both in terms of football skills and personal growth. I will do my best to contribute to achieving the team’s goals.”  

"This place isn't entirely unfamiliar to me because my mother, aunt, and their families are all from here. They were all very happy when they learned that I was coming to play in their hometown. When I played for Girona, they often came to watch my games because it was convenient. Now that I'm in Valencia, it's similar; they can still easily come to the stadium. I think they definitely won't miss my games because my whole family loves football."

“Whenever you stand on the pitch and see the stands always full of fans, and everyone is constantly cheering for the team, you can truly feel the connection between the players and the fans. We are not separate individuals, but a whole fighting together. As long as the team and the fans can stay united, I believe we can create many memorable moments in this stadium.”  

Image source: Internet/Valencia official website