Hijos del Mestalla
A Spanish striker who played for Valencia from 2006.
Fernando Morientes Sánchez (born 5 April 1976) is a Spanish former professional footballer who played as a striker. He played for a number of clubs during his career, including Real Madrid, Monaco, Liverpool and Valencia.
Quick Facts
- Identity
- Core supporter base and cultural identity
- Home ground
- Estadio de Mestalla
- Primary location
- Curva Sud (South Curve)
- Motto
- Valencia
- Valencia
- Valencia
- Status
- Active and foundational to club culture
Lore & Background
Morientes was born in Cilleros, Cáceres, Extremadura, and moved to Sonseca in the Province of Toledo at the age of four. He began his professional career at Albacete Balompié, making his La Liga debut on 7 November 1993. He later played for Zaragoza, Real Madrid, Monaco, Liverpool, and Valencia. He earned 47 caps for Spain, representing the country in two World Cups and Euro 2004.
Reader's Guide
Morientes joined Valencia in late May 2006 for a fee reported to be around £3 million. He scored on his league debut – a 2–1 home win against Betis – and also netted a hat-trick in his first Champions League appearance against Olympiacos FC. He linked up well with David Villa and scored 12 goals in 24 games, and was also team-top scorer in the Champions League with seven.
Did You Know?
- Morientes scored 124 goals in 337 La Liga games over 15 seasons.
- He started in four Champions League finals between 1998 and 2004.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Hijos del Mestalla?
They are the core loyal supporter collective of Valencia CF, representing the club's deepest cultural identity rather than just a casual fan section. Think of them as the living embodiment of what it means to be a Che through every high and low the team has experienced.
Where do Hijos del Mestalla sit during matches?
Their home is the Curva Sud, the South Curve at the Estadio de Mestalla. This is the section where the most passionate and vocal support comes from on matchdays.
What is the Hijos del Mestalla motto?
Their rallying cry is simply "Valencia, Valencia, Valencia." It is a straightforward declaration of identity and belonging that cuts through any other allegiance.
What do Hijos del Mestalla actually do for the club?
Beyond singing and chanting, they serve as keepers of Valencia CF's traditions and history, making sure the club's soul survives regardless of form or results. They connect the present-day team to the legacy built over decades of Blaugrana football.
Are Hijos del Mestalla still active today?
Yes, they remain a foundational and active presence in Valencia CF's fan culture. Their role as the spiritual core of the Mestalla atmosphere continues to this day.
More in Stadium & Culture
Elsewhere in Valencia CF
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