Copete: "The injury was a nightmare"

Copete returned to action Tuesday after eight months out with a meniscal knee injury that required two surgeries.

Valencia defender José Copete made his comeback in the Copa del Rey first round against Tavernes de la Valldigna on Tuesday, more than eight months after suffering a meniscal injury to his left knee against Villarreal on February 22. The injury required two operations and proved to be a grueling recovery process.

Copete described the ordeal as "a nightmare" but expressed pride in his effort and patience throughout rehabilitation. "It's been months very difficult professionally and surely some of the most complicated of my life personally," he said on social media. "I've had to face an injury that became a nightmare and a challenge I never imagined I'd have to confront."

The centre-back thanked his support network for standing by him during the difficult months and said he is now focused on enjoying his return and helping Valencia achieve their objectives. Dimitri Foulquier has also returned, while Diego López and Sergi Canós remain sidelined.