Vitolo split on Spain debut

Vitolo has admitted that his Spain debut against Netherlands on Tuesday left him with mixed emotions.

The Sevilla winger replaced Pedro Rodriguez for the second half at Amsterdam ArenA and expressed both his pleasure at having earned his maiden cap for La Roja and disappointment that it was marked by a 2-0 defeat.

“I had a great chance [to mark my debut with a goal], but I rushed it a little. Now, I must learn from my mistakes and continue [in this manner],” he said after the match.

“I think the Coach is trying to change the face of the team a little. A number of important players have left [the team through international retirement] and it’s difficult to achieve what they’ve achieved.

“We’re in a time of change and if we’re given both time and patience, the big players will come to the fore.

“[The most surprising thing] is the human values of the players. I used to see many of them on TV and playing alongside them is a pleasure.

“Since I joined up with the squad, they welcomed me very well. Even though they’ve won everything they still have [good] human values.

“There are leaders [in the team] who are hurt because Spain didn’t win [against Netherlands]. They encourage the group and help the other players a lot.

“It’ll be very difficult [to keep my place in the squad]. There are some very good players [in contention], but the most important thing is that I felt very well and found it very easy to play with these players.”

Tags friendly Holland Netherlands Oranje Spain Vitolo
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