MADRID, 6 Sep. (EUROPA PRESS) –
Spanish full-back Dani Carvajal has commented that he has “never” had “a guaranteed place” in Spain, and that he has had “great teammates and great rivals” in his position, which is why it has been difficult for him to become a “starting player” both at his club and with the national team.
“I’ve never had a guaranteed place either in the national team or at my club. I’ve had great teammates and great rivals in my position, where it’s been difficult for me to get that starting position and now it seems that I’m having more continuity at my club and that means that I can have it here with Spain as well,” said the 50-times international for Spain in the media of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
Carvajal said he was “proud” that over the last 10 years “all the coaches” have counted on him, something that he considers “very valuable.” “I thank the entire Federation for the support it has given me since day one,” he added.
The Real Madrid full-back recalled his debut with ‘La Roja’: “It was in France, unfortunately we lost, 1-0, but I remember it very well. It was a dream debut, against a great team and it was the start of this career with Spain,” he said.
“We have had a lot of success in recent years. We recently won the European Championship, which I was really looking forward to because I was winning a major tournament, both the European Championship and the World Cup with Spain. Now we have the challenge of defending our titles,” explained one of the captains of the national team.
Regarding his sporting moment, Carvajal is clear that with the passing of the years he is “maturing as a person.” “In the end you change and improve. Now you try to be a bit of an example and a mirror where the youngsters should look at themselves, and on the field you are also improving with your experience. But I maintain the same desire and enthusiasm as always,” he indicated.
Carvajal, who played against Serbia in the UEFA Nations League, felt “tremendous pride”, especially for being able to “start with the armband”. “It means a lot to me. Being the captain on the pitch is a sign of a long career, and a lot of effort and sacrifice. It was a very special day,” he added.
Finally, he wanted to thank his family for the “stability” that they provide him “off the pitch.” “Coming home, having a home, feeling that support every day, in good times and bad, is very important for our profession,” he concluded.