Q: Is it a special feeling for you to return to Spain? And to face Real Madrid, who lost 4-0 to Barça this weekend…
A: For me, it’s always special to play against a Spanish team, and even more so when it’s Real Madrid. I grew up at Barça, spent many years there, and the rivalry between the clubs is very real.
They had a tough result against Barça last weekend with that 4-0, but I think, despite the score, they had some good moments, created chances and had spells where they played well.
After a defeat, you always want to bounce back and do better, so I think, with that and last year’s result when we played them, they’ll come here determined to beat us.
They’ve started the Champions League really well, have a lot of points, and I’m sure it’ll be a great match, but I hope the three points stay here.
Q: Did you talk with your former Barça teammates about the fact that the Clásico was played just before your Champions League match against them?
A: No, in the end, everything happens so quickly, I just exchanged a few messages with Irene Paredes and congratulated Alexia (Putellas) on the win. I hope they’ve shown us the way and that we can do it again.
Q: You’re one of the Spanish players playing in England. What was it like to play the Euro final against so many of your club teammates? And how was it afterwards, being a Spaniard in England after the Euro?
A: When you play a final, you’re obviously focused on Spain and on what we’re doing as a team; you don’t think about who you’re up against.
Of course, you know them very well, we’re friends and there’s a lot of respect between us, but in the end, it’s a final and they want to win, and so do we.
Coming back after losing… The first day is tough, especially when they’re celebrating their victory as they should, but I didn’t feel uncomfortable about it, because they also showed respect to me and to the Spanish team.
I think there’s a rivalry between Spain and England; we’ve played each other countless times and we’ll keep playing each other. It’s just part of sport and you have to accept it.
Q: It seems like your level and talent are more recognised in England than in Spain. Do you feel that way too?
A: No, I always say I felt very appreciated during my time in Spain and when I go there with the national team. I think now people outside Spain have got to know me better, seen me more, especially as I’ve played in different positions and taken on different roles.
I focus on trying to improve every day, help my team, my country, and everything else is out of my hands. I don’t think about it too much.