"The defeat against Colombia was not something we expected"

Dani Olmo started the season as a clear candidate for the Spanish national team for the European Championship in Germany, but his progress came to a halt at the beginning of November. He had to undergo surgery on a collarbone injury that kept him out of both Luis de la Fuente's call-ups and those of his club, Leipzig. Now, back with 'La Roja', he is delighted to have the confidence of a coach who knows him well and whom he praised on Spanish television.

"I feel better as a playmaker, behind the No. 9. The coach knows me well and he knows where I can perform. In the end, wherever he puts me, I'll give my best. It was my dream to play for Spain. I am where I want to be. It was my dream since I was a kid," the striker conceded in a dialogue lasting just under a minute. He also acknowledged that the loss to Colombia did not sit well in the dressing room, which was expecting a win.

"It's clear that the defeat was not something we expected, but well, things to improve, as always, and we're motivated to keep improving now for the Brazil game. We expect a lot of people to come and help and support us. That's always an extra motivation and, well, it's a big game to win and gain confidence and feelings for what's to come," he said, already looking ahead to the tournament in a few months' time.

Regarding the forced absence explained in the first paragraph of this article, he said: "I really wanted to come back. I'm at my best, I feel good, with no physical problems, so I'm looking forward to continuing to contribute". Little by little, his physical condition will guarantee his firm candidacy for the final squad for the European Championship, as his team is already out of the Champions League and faces a more relaxed schedule.

 

March 24, 2024