Diego López: "We're going for the win at the Santiago Bernabéu" | OneFootball

Valencia CF forward Diego López spoke to the media this Thursday, April 3, in the press room at the Ciutat Esportiva de Paterna to discuss the team’s good form, his excellent recent performances—scoring four goals in the last four matches—and the upcoming game against Real Madrid CF.

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"Talks have started, but right now, the priority is to finish the season well, ensure the team stays up, and then whatever has to happen will happen. I'm very happy here. I still have two years left on my contract. Valencia is my home; it has given me everything. I love the city and the people."

Individual performance

"Right now, the goals are coming. Both the previous and current coaching staff have always told me that a season is long, with ups and downs, but overall, I've maintained a good level. The numbers were missing, but in the last month, they’ve come all at once. Everyone tells me my performance has been solid."

LALIGA U-23 player of the month for March

"I was really excited about it. It's an individual award that reflects a great month, and it makes me very happy. I'm very pleased."

Growth as a player

"It's been two years, but the change has been huge. I had only played four or five matches in the first division back then; now, I've played many more. Playing a lot of minutes at the top level gives you maturity, and sharing the locker room with experienced players, working with the staff, and living it day by day changes you a lot. Hopefully, I can score again against Real Madrid CF."

Upcoming fixtures

"We're preparing really well for the game against Real Madrid CF. It's our next match, so that's where our focus is."

Hugo Duro

"I have a great relationship with him. I always celebrate his success, and he does the same for me. It doesn’t matter who scores the goals."

Experience at Real Madrid CF

"It was a tough step. My first experience away from home, a difficult year at 14 years old. But it was also a beautiful time where I met great teammates. That stage helped me grow."

Corberán’s influence

"He asks us to stay focused and work hard. Every day is demanding. He always pushes us to give 100%, just as he does himself. Both he and his coaching staff work hard to get results. I want to thank him for everything he's doing, and hopefully, he continues like this because his success is our success."

Playing position

"I'm getting into the opponent’s box more often. I do what the coach asks. Playing on the left wing with Gayà means he asks me to move inside more. Most of my goals have come from there. I enjoy playing with both Sadiq and Hugo Duro."

Goals for the rest of the season

"I want to finish the season well, suffer as little as possible, and secure safety as soon as possible. Then, take it game by game, end the season on a high note, and maintain my level to play in the European Championship this summer."

Mestalla

"It's one of the best stadiums in the world, in Europe. The fans always come to support us. It speaks volumes about what Valencia CF, its people, and the city represent. It makes our opponents feel smaller. They’ve been crucial for us. Mestalla is a fortress, a key factor."

Corberán's praise for Diego

"I'm grateful. He’s giving us a lot. His words make me proud. I come here every day eager to keep improving and learning. Having a coach and staff who push us to our limits is amazing."

Facing Real Madrid CF

"As long as we win, that’s all that matters. The Bernabéu is the Bernabéu, but at the end of the day, it's still 11 against 11. We have to focus on what happens on the pitch—that’s what counts."

Asturias-Valencia CF connection

"100% or at least 90% of my hometown supports Valencia CF. I work hard every day, and I hope to become like the Asturian players who have played here before."