David Raya and a return to where it all began

On 26 March 2022, a young David Raya made his first appearance for the Spain national football team. It came against Albania at the RCDE Stadium, where Spain secured a 2–1 victory. That night marked the beginning of his international journey—one that has since brought him a European Championship and a Nations League title.

“Now we return to the stadium where I made my debut—four years have already passed. I’ll be at home, with my people. I’m very grateful and excited to be back there,” Raya reflected. “I remember it with happiness and surprise—I didn’t know I was going to play until minutes before kick-off. Starting my journey with the national team at home made it even more special.”

Looking ahead, and having already experienced a World Cup in Qatar, Raya admitted: “You never really imagine yourself playing in a World Cup. You dream about it, but you don’t expect it to happen.” He also acknowledged the challenge awaiting Spain at the upcoming tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico: “It’s going to be very difficult, but we will give everything.”

Following the Spain–Serbia match (3–0), Luis de la Fuente praised the four goalkeepers in the squad—a sentiment Raya welcomed: “I’m very grateful for his words. He has always given me the confidence to keep going and to help the team achieve success.”

Raya now returns to Barcelona with the same enthusiasm he felt on his debut four years ago, determined to remain among those selected as Spain continue their pursuit of further success.