“The Best Player in This Squad is the Team”

Challenging match:

“The game unfolded just as we expected. We knew it would be a match requiring patience and persistence. Bulgaria defended very well in a compact block, and it was difficult for us to break them down. Matches like this are always hard to open up.”

Unbeaten record:

“It’s a source of great pride. Equaling Vicente del Bosque’s historic unbeaten streak — a figure I deeply admire — is wonderful, but not for me, rather for the players. They are exceptional footballers, with exemplary performance and attitude, always striving for more. Now we aim for 30, 31… as far as we can go. These players are extraordinary and give us much optimism for the future.”

Group E:

“I have always said that nothing in international football comes easy, but I like it when we are challenged. All teams have talented players, which is why everything must be done properly to minimize their strengths. We are performing so well that sometimes opponents may appear weaker than they actually are.”

Samu and Borja Iglesias:

“Both have done an outstanding job. Samu had to fight to create space against a very disciplined, well-organized defense. He did it brilliantly, and Borja benefited from it. This is a team effort. I’m extremely pleased with both, and if they miss chances, it doesn’t worry me. Their issue is not a lack of scoring ability — far from it.”

Pedri:

“Spanish fans have excellent taste and recognize top-class footballers. Pedri’s quality is clear, and his attitude and commitment to the national team are exceptional. I also want to highlight the tremendous work of all his teammates, many of whom are world-class. The best player in this squad is the team itself.”

Mikel Merino:

“He is an exceptionally complete player with great adaptability. There are few players as versatile as him, and it is a privilege to have him with us. He reads opponents and situations superbly. He is a fantastic footballer, on the same level as Pedri, Oyarzabal, Rodri… we have an outstanding squad.”

Ambition:

“We are the product of what we have inherited. Since 2008, under Luis Aragonés and later Vicente del Bosque, the national team has left a legacy that endures. The players are aware of our history. We are motivated by challenges, and knowing these players — who are insatiable and always want more — achieving the titles won by previous squads will push us even further. We have the potential to compete at the highest level, and this generation wants to make history.”