Valencia’s January signing Enzo Perez was integral to helping the club earn victory over Real Madrid on Sunday, according to manager Nuno Espirito Santo.

Perez linked up with Los Che over the winter break after Valencia agreed a fee of €25million with Benfica for the Argentina international.

The 28-year-old had been training with his new team-mates during the Christmas period and was handed the chance to make his debut at the Mestalla against the league leaders.

Real entered the game boasting a record of 22 consecutive victories but failed to extend that as they went down 2-1.

Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring before Antonio Barragan and Nicolas Otamendi bagged for the home team in the second half.

Nuno was quick to focus the attention on his new signing at the full-time whistle and he felt that Perez provided some balance to the side.

Nuno said: “Enzo [Perez] had a great match. He offered the balance needed for a three-man central midfield to work.”

Perez was also delighted with his first appearance for the Spanish club and admitted that he was hopeful of doing it on a regular basis as they continue to push for a top-four finish.

Perez said: “We always kept the same attitude. Nuno knows me, he knows my positioning on the pitch and I am available to play wherever the team need me.

“The fans here are amazing, so let’s hope that they continue supporting us this way for the rest of the season.”