Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has backed Alvaro Morata to play a key role in the Euro 2024 final.
Ahead of facing England in Berlin on July 14, de la Fuente offered a firm defence of his captain, who will lead La Roja into battle.
Morata has found himself at the centre of controversy during the tournament after appearing to contradict his comments over wanting to stay at Atletico Madrid next season.
The veteran forward is open to remaining in Madrid, but he feels unfairly criticised at times, and there is transfer interest in him from Italy.
De la Fuente claimed Morata’s frustration is justified, as his years of service to Spain do not warrant negativity, as he prepares for the biggest game of his international career.
“In Spain we find it difficult to recognise good things we have. Morata is a clear example. He has the numbers of a superstar”, as per quotes from Marca.
“He’s the fourth top scorer in Spain’s history, third in the Euros, and won titles at top level clubs.
🗣️Luis de la Fuente backs Spain captain Alvaro Morata
"In Spain we find it difficult to recognise good things we have. He has the numbers of a superstar. He's Spain's fourth top scorer, third in the Euros, and has won titles at top clubs. He'd be a legend in another country." pic.twitter.com/LgxpkWpEfU
— Football España (@footballespana_) July 12, 2024
“He would be a legend in another country, but in ours it’s difficult.
“I’m 100% behind him. He has the support of his teammates and coaches and they feel bad about the attitude of a certain sector of the press towards him.”
Morata is currently on 36 international goals from 79 games and is considering international retirement after the tournament.
