Spain will play the final of the Nations League with a French center-back by birth and France with one that could well have defended the Red shirt. The duel of left-handed defenders between Laporte and Lucas Hernández leaves the background of the many movements that have taken place lately between these two federations to try to convince and summon some of the footballers who admitted that possibility.
Laporte has been the last case, but not the only one. Deschamps' lack of opportunities at City center-back, and Luis Enrique's expertise to call him at the right time, made him definitely wear the shirt of the Spanish team from the last Eurocup. The reinforcement has been of guarantees. Born in Agen (France) 27 years ago, he emerged as one of the best centrals in the last Euro and was the undisputed starter from start to finish.
Despite the fact that he played with the French Under-21s, having spent so much time in Spain in the Athletic From the lower ranks, a bond was created that linked him a lot to the country that he now defends. The rest were bureaucratic procedures that were expedited on time, with the help of the government of Spain to grant you nationality.
That is where Lucas stumbled. His case was not very different. Born in Marseilles 25 years ago, but Since he was a child, he worked in Spain in the Atlético de Madrid quarry“.” From the first moment I have wanted to play for France. I was born here, it is my country. It is true that Spain loved me but I did not, I always thought of the French team. I was born here, I play with them because I am French “said the Gaul in Turin.
And, indeed, from his time in Spain I knew him well Lopetegui, who did everything in his power to be able to summon him with Spain.
It was the time when the Basque, in love with the game of the left-handed central or lateral, directed a young and renovated team. However, the change of nationality never came and the possibility disappeared. At the same time, Lucas gave the jump to Bayern and Deschamps did not miss the opportunity to call him and to make it even headline in the world conquered by France. No more no less.