Marc Bartra has reflected on Spain’s similarities in play to Barcelona’s and on Under-21s’ chances against Norway this Saturday.
The Spanish Under-21 side have strolled into the semi-finals of this summer’s UEFA Under-21 Championship in Israel, winning each of their three group games to set up a meeting this weekend with Norway.
“The truth is that being with this national team generates really nice feelings. We form a tight unit,” reflected Bartra to UEFA’s official website, before commenting on the playing style under Julen Lopetegui mirroring that at his club Barcelona.
“Both teams play very similarly and here there are also a lot of players who were formed at Barcelona.
“[Both teams] come out from the back and look to generate space while they hold a high defensive line to create lots of chances.
“Going to play against rivals who have their strengths and who know how to use them isn't easy. [Former Coach] Luis Milla and Julen Lopetegui knew how to motivate us.”
For Bartra, his education in the game has been about playing the ball out from the back.
“When I was younger, I learned to be in control of the ball when carrying it out from the back. I was taught that by Pep Guardiola and Tito [Vilanova], as well as by Milla and Lopetegui.
“Even Eusebio [Sacristan] in Barca B encouraged me that way. These defensive actions might not seem all that significant but they have their merits.
“When it comes to the moment to intervene you have to look to do things perfectly.
“With the help of a holding midfielder and being quick-thinking and concentrated in our actions we cause a lot of harm to opposing teams.
“All the while we feel comfortable. We are used to working this way.”
The defender was asked of Spain’s comfort in the competition this summer so far and if they are favourites to retain their Under-21 title.
“We would be kidding ourselves a bit if we were to say we are favourites and that we are going to win it. We saw in our opening game against Russia the difficulties we would be facing here.
“When we see ourselves getting closer to reaching the final and winning it, we start to get that feeling of how things might shape up. But we must be patient.”
Bartra then picked out David de Gea and Thiago Alcantara for special praise for their work so far this tournament.
“De Gea is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. He saves a lot of attempts and knows how to play with his feet which gives us a feeling of security.
“I have a lot of time for Thiago because we have been playing together for many years. He brings togetherness to the group. While on the pitch you can tell he inspires the team to play and to keep possession."
