Girona forward Valentín ‘Taty’ Castellanos was the club’s first big summer signing since they returned to the Primera División. The 23-year-old striker, on loan from New York City, sat down for an exclusive interview with Mundo Deportivo.
On joining Girona
“After four seasons in New York, it was a bit of a shock to come to such a small city compared to where I came from. But I was extremely happy because I am in a city and in a team that is like a family, and I’m surrounded by a good group and a coaching staff that works hard. That gave me a lot of incentive to want to be better every day.”
What are the differences between American and European football?
“The adaptation is different. It’s a totally competitive league, the second best in the world without a doubt. The centre-backs and the teams are better, but you have to be up to the task. You have to fight a lot more. In MLS you could get 10 or 15 chances and here you get four or five and you have to take advantage of them because you don’t always get them in the games. That makes you focus on every ball.”
Do you intend to return to New York at the end of your loan or do you see yourself in European football?
“Without a doubt, I want to stay in Europe. It’s always been my dream, that’s what I aspire to and that’s why I work every day. I feel I have what it takes to be in this league.”
GSFN
