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“I’m buzzing for this new challenge”
IN CONVERSATION WITH SUMMER SIGNING CHUKI
02/06/26 | 3 Min
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It’s official: Chuki will be a Green-White as of this summer. WERDER.DE sat down with the Spaniard for his first interview as a Bremen player, in which the talented attacking midfielder discussed the motivation behind his move abroad and why he knew Werder was the right destination for him.
WERDER.DE: Moin, Chuki! It’s fantastic that you’ve chosen to join us here on the Weser. What are your first impressions of Bremen?
Chuki: Thanks very much! It’s been a great first impression, and I’m excited to get to know the city much better soon.
WERDER.DE: So, your full name is Iván San José Cantalejo – how do you get to Chuki from that?
Chuki: People always ask me that (laughs). The nickname came about when I was still a kid, and I was quite a cheeky lad. Then that became my name at football, and so now everyone knows that I go by Chuki.
WERDER.DE: You were born in Valladolid, and you ended up working your way through the youth setup at Real Valladolid. How difficult is it for you to leave home now?
Chuki: Yeah, it was definitely a difficult decision for me. Valladolid has been my home for my whole life up to this point, but I’m buzzing for this new challenge, and I’m really looking forward to being here for the new season.
WERDER.DE: Werder is the next step on your journey, then. Why did you choose to move abroad at this point? And what are your impressions of the Bundesliga?
Chuki: It goes without saying that leaving Spain and moving to the Bundesliga is a big step for me. I feel ready for it, though. I’m excited to take on the challenge, and I feel totally ready to give everything for this club.
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WERDER.DE: You played alongside Karl Hein eleven times last season, when he was at Real Valladolid. Did you get in contact with him before your transfer here was signed and sealed?
Chuki: Yes, I did speak to him, and he told me all about how it feels like one big family here, and what it’s like to live in Bremen. He was very complimentary about both the club and the city.
WERDER.DE: You’ve put up the most goal contributions at your club this season, and you like to operate in attacking midfield. What would you say are your greatest strengths?
Chuki: I think I do have a lot of quality, but I also work really hard on improving my game and I’m definitely a team player. I’m good with the ball in the final third, but I also have a decent shot in my locker for sure. I’d say I mainly like to be on the ball as much as possible.
WERDER.DE: What will you make sure to bring with you from Spain when you move to Bremen?
Chuki: My family (laughs).
WERDER.DE: Thank you and welcome to Bremen, Chuki!
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