Jesús Vallejo has made an impressive start to his new chapter at Albacete following his departure from Real Madrid. The defender played 45 minutes in his debut against Andorra, immediately showing the leadership and experience that prompted the Manchego club to sign him.
"I'm very happy to join this great team, with these great teammates," Vallejo stated after the match. "This type of game helps a lot. I've received much affection, not only through social media but also during my days in Albacete."
Alberto González, the team's coach, now enjoys significantly strengthened defensive options with Vallejo's arrival. The backline already features Pepe Sánchez, Jon García, and Javi Moreno, while the versatile Javi Villar can also play as a central defender when needed.
Vallejo's integration has been remarkably smooth. "I've been lucky to have already participated in several training sessions with the team. I feel comfortable and happy," he explained. The former Madrid man already had familiarity with one teammate – "I knew Pepe Sánchez from our time together at Granada, and with the rest of the teammates, the integration has been very easy."
Interestingly, Vallejo has quickly embraced the coach's philosophy: "We're starting from the basics, which is what the manager asks of us, and I believe from there we can build a great team."
The defender might get his second opportunity to impress this Saturday when Albacete faces "Real Murcia" in another preseason fixture. Will the former Real Madrid man continue to establish himself as a defensive leader for his new club?
