“I feel wanted” – Álvaro Morata on Atlético Madrid, Spain and bouncing back after Chelsea

Álvaro Morata has experienced difficult times in his career, especially during his time at Chelsea, as the player himself admits. However, this season, at a reinvigorated Atlético Madrid, Morata has proved to be a vital part of a team that is in form and gunning for silverware.

Speaking on Radioestadio Noche, adapted by Marca, the Spaniard sat down to discuss the current Atlético side, the upcoming European Championship, and his struggles in the past.

Morata at Atlético Madrid

“Without a doubt, it is the happiest time in my career, and I hope it ends up being a great year. It is the best and most important I have felt both at Atlético Madrid and in the Spain national team. It hasn’t been easy; I’ve gone through difficult moments. This summer, I had a sit-down with Diego Simeone and Miguel Ángel Gil. It made me feel important; it was what I needed. When you have the confidence of the manager and your teammates, it makes it a lot easier. I feel more wanted. I see it when we are playing at home; I notice it, and I appreciate it a lot.”

The offer from Saudi Arabia

“I never think about Saudi Arabia. It was a lot of money but not the €50m that was suggested. Going to Saudi Arabia might have cost me my place in the national side, and I would have regretted it.”

Worst moment

“I had a really bad time in England. I spoke with my wife and told her I might go to a club that I knew, where there was less pressure.”

Discussing the impact that social media had on him and the things that were being said about him, he responded, “I don’t look at social media; I don’t have time to beat myself up.”

On Spain and the Euros

“We can win the Euros. I would swap my international goals for a European trophy or a World Cup. I can’t imagine winning one of those titles with Spain. Winning the UEFA Nations League was one of the best moments of my life; winning the others must be incredible.”

On winning the league

“We’re going to fight to win the league until the very end. We have a lot of room to improve and a good team.”

GSFN | Finn Entwistle

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