Why are the Valencia players called 'Ches'?

Traditions, customs and history are vital elements in the development of football clubs. Their growth is linked to a place and so it is inevitable that some elements that are representative of their place of origin become a part of their identity.

 

In order to explain why the players and fans of Valencia CF are known by the nickname ‘Che’ it is necessary to take a close look at the Valencian style of speaking and communicating. 'Che' is an expression that is used by Valencians as an interjection in conversation. It is a common colloquial way of saying 'hey' in the Valencia region.

People from the east coast, the 'Levantinos', are easily identified by the use of this interjection, much more than people from other parts of Spain. It is in fact a particularly Valencian expression and so, over time, the Valencia CF team has become known as the 'Che' team, a nickname recognised throughout the rest of the country.