Valencia is still plotting farewell testimonial game
ANTONIO Valencia has spoken of his hope that his planned testimonial match will still happen as he reflected on his United career a year after his departure.
On May 12, 2019, Valencia made his final appearance for United after 10 years of service as he came on as a late substitute in the 2-0 defeat against Cardiff City on the last day of the season.
Valencia arrived at Old Trafford from Wigan Athletic in 2009 for £16.92m as United looked to replace the departed Cristiano Ronaldo, and he established himself as a fan favourite thanks to his explosiveness down the right and his wicked delivery.
Later in his tenure he showed his versatility as he was converted into a right-back and, after wearing the armband on several occasions, he was officially named club captain for what transpired to be his final season at the club.
Upon the expiration of his contract last summer, Valencia returned to his native Ecuador to play for Liga Deportiva Universitaria (LDU), where he is enjoying the twilight of his career and has already won the inaugural Ecuadorian Cup.
Upon his arrival LDU confirmed that they were set to travel to Manchester at some point in 2020 to face United in a testimonial match.
“Soon we’ll have the possibility to play against United at Old Trafford, where Antonio Valencia will have his farewell match,” Esteban Paz told Radio Huancavilca in November.
“We hope it will be for the first quarter of next year.”
With the coronavirus pandemic gripping the world, it now seems unlikely that the match will be happening any time soon but Valencia is still looking forward to the occasion.
Antonio Valencia
“One year ago one of the best times of my life ended,” Valencia wrote on Instagram.
“Unforgettable years wearing United shirt.
“I only have words of gratitude for all the fans and members of the club. Thank you for everything!”
He finished by writing: “We’ll see again for the 2008 rematch,” and tagging LDU, implying there are still plans to hold the farewell game at some point in the future.
Valencia made 339 appearances during his time at United, scoring 25 goals and providing 62 assists, while winning two Premier League titles, two League Cups, the FA Cup and the Europa League.