“Friendly matches? There is no greater motivation than joining the Spanish team”

Santi Denia appeared before the media in the press room of the Carlos Belmonte stadium in Albacete ahead of the U-21 friendly match between the Spanish team and Denmark in the Spanish team’s final match of 2024.

“I am looking forward to this match with great enthusiasm. I have the privilege of being U21 coach, of being able to work within the Spanish Federation and of having this position. This match was organized in Albacete and we recently won this gold medal in the Olympic Games and for me it is a pride to be able to be here. Let’s see if the fourth time is the right one and if we can give victory to the people,” said the Spanish Under-21 coach during a press conference.

“I feel very comfortable in Albacete. I passed by the street where I grew up. But I’m involved in the game. It’s going to be very demanding. Against Denmark, who came first in their group and who will help us prepare for the European Championship this summer. Because we don’t have many preparation matches. We have this one against Denmark, then two in March and we go to the final phase of the European Championship. My head is in the game plan. “I want to choose the eleven well, get the message across to the players, etc.” declared Saint Dénia.

“I was very lucky. In the four times the U21s have come to Albacete, I have always been there. One as a player in 1993, two as an assistant to Celades and Luis de la Fuente, and now as head coach. It’s a source of immense pride. “It’s one of the best things that could happen to me,” said the Spanish coach.

“There are no friendly matches here. He said it Luis Aragones. These are preparation and elite matches. The Federation is risking its prestige and as a coach I want to continue to win. And a tie hurts. And this request benefits everyone. We always want to win. These games motivate all players because they play another call and know people are watching them. These are prestigious matches. There is no more motivation than joining the Spanish team,” he said. Dénia.

“We are looking forward to Luis taking all the U21 players. It will be good for everyone. For them and for the Federation. When the time comes to give the list this summer, players available and convinced, then we will choose. Spanish football is in good health among young people. It’s good for everyone,” commented the U21 coach.

“All U-21 coaches have always had problems with call-ups. Milla, Celades, Lopetegui, Luis de la Fuente… It is a source of pride that you absolutely support your players. The European Under-21 Championship is not a FIFA date. They are variable. They must be available and also convinced. “It’s the best for players of this age,” he concluded. Saint Dénia.