 Vales missed the vast majority of 2003–04, due to a foot injury.He then signed with RCD Mallorca, but suffered a relapse in his condition and eventually decided to retire at age 30, with Spanish top flight totals of 228 matches and 18 goals; subsequently, he worked in a law firm in his hometown.On 14 October 1998, Vales earned his first – and only – cap for Spain