Spanish ‘keeper prepares for second chance in the Premier League
Victor Valdes has penned a two-year deal with newly-promoted Premier League side Middlesbrough, after being released by Manchester United this summer.
The signing was confirmed on Thursday, with Boro boss Aitor Karanka confirming his fifth acquisition of the summer, as he looks to maintain top-division status with the Teesiders, who have ended their seven-year absence from the Premier League.
Valdes was released by United, after a woeful time at Old Trafford where he managed just two appearances under former boss Louis Van Gaal, following a disagreement about the 20-time Spain international featuring for the club’s under-21 side.
The 34-year-old spent last the second half of last season on loan in Belgium, with Standard Liege, but has taken up a second chance to prove himself in the Premier League, with Karanka’s Boro.
And the Boro boss duly showed his delight at capturing a high-profile signing, who enjoyed a trophy-laden career at the Camp Nou, with Barcelona.
“You can’t imagine how delighted I am because it’s not usual to bring players like him to recently promoted teams,” said Karanka.
“I’m really pleased because he is really committed.
“All the the conversations we’ve had he knows why he is here and he is coming to add to what we have.
“He knows how strong this group is.
Valdes joined United on an 18-month deal, in January 2015, competing with compatriot David De Gea for the no.1 jersey, but will now battle with Dimitrios Konstantopoulos for the right to start between the sticks for Middlesbrough.
It will be a big culture shock for the Spaniard, who enjoyed 12 seasons with Barcelona which saw him win 11 major trophies along the way, including La Liga and Champions League titles.
