Maduro: “De Haas is a physically and mentally strong player with ambition and confidence on the ball.”

Former Valencia CF player Hedwiges Maduro (2007–08 to 2011–12) appeared on today’s VCF Media Radio news program to discuss the signing of his fellow Dutchman Justin De Haas and share his initial thoughts on the defender.

First impressions

“He’s a physically and mentally strong player. He’s composed on the ball and has the patience to make the right decisions. He’s a player who keeps improving every year.”

Joining Valencia CF

“Valencia CF is a great club in Spain. It should always be competing for European qualification, and that’s Justin’s mentality as well.”

Adaptation and commitment

“A player at Valencia has to understand that Valencia CF is a very big club. He needs to have a winning mentality and be hardworking. Justin adapts very quickly, and he’s already learning Spanish.”

Defensive qualities

“De Haas is confident on the ball and has plenty of personality in possession. He prefers having teammates close to him because he’s physically strong, but he can also cope with space behind him thanks to his size. It’s very important for the team to press together or defend deep as a unit. He needs that collective structure as well.”