Marc Pubill, an international full-back for Atlético de Madrid, has expressed his strong belief in Spain's prospects in the upcoming World Cup to be held in United States, Canada, and Mexico. Following his first call-up to the senior squad under coach Luis de la Fuente, the Rojiblanco player told the media: "I think they are all great teams, but I have a lot of faith in our team and I don't see another favorite. So hopefully, we can add another little star."
Visibly pleased with his inclusion in the national squad, Pubill approaches this new chapter with genuine enthusiasm. "Very happy for the opportunity, to be here enjoying it with my teammates and eager to do very well," stated the Catalan defender, who admitted that while he had considered the possibility of being called up, his focus remained on his club. "I've always said it, I don't look at the past or the future. Football lives in the present. Obviously, you think about it, but I was focused on my club, and that's why this call-up came," he explained.
Recalling Spain's 2010 World Cup title, Pubill, who was too young to remember it clearly, mentioned "especially Iniesta's goal". "Hopefully, we can add another little star to the badge. Representing your country in a World Cup is the best thing a footballer can do, and as I said, I am grateful, very happy, and eager to enjoy it to the fullest," he added.
The player positively assessed the welcome he received from his teammates in the national team: "Everyone has helped me a lot, and I am very grateful to all of them because the reception has been very good." He emphasized that he also experienced no difficulties in team dynamics in the lower categories and that the group seeks moments of relaxation beyond training sessions: "We get together, we try to do things to take our minds off things and pass the time."
Pubill also acknowledged that he will need to adapt to tactical differences between the national team's playing style and that of Atlético de Madrid. "I think here there's a lot of football played inside. We tend to play more on the outside, and just with that, there's a big difference," he specified.
“"He told me to be humble, as I have always been, and that if I continue to be humble, great things will come. As I said, I am very grateful for that."
Finally, the Rojiblanco defender stressed his complete availability to the coach, Luis de la Fuente, regardless of the position he is asked to play. "I see myself wherever the coach sees me; I will try to give my maximum there," concluded Marc Pubill.
