Dani Olmo, star of the Spanish national team, 2026 World Cup champions, spoke about the reasons for "La Roja"'s crowning with the title, praising the level presented by the Egyptian national team during the tournament, and also commented on the brawl incidents that followed the World Cup final against Argentina.
Olmo said in his interview with the Spanish newspaper Diari de Terrassa: "The group always rises above individuals, and at the level of the best teams the differences are minimal, and what makes the difference is for the team to be like a family, as we all defend one idea and believe in what we do."
He added: "I was convinced of our capabilities from the beginning, and it was not just a wish, but a true belief in our ability to win the World Cup."
Regarding his physical readiness after a long season, he explained: "There is no substitute for hard work, but real development also depends on nutrition, rest, recovery, mental preparation, and match analysis; what you do when no one sees you is what makes the difference."
He pointed to the defensive solidity of the Spanish national team, saying: "Conceding only one goal in a tournament like the World Cup was decisive, because we were the best offensively and defensively."
Regarding the first edition of the World Cup with 48 teams participating, he said: "It was an extremely difficult tournament full of challenges, and big teams fell early, so winning the title was not easy at all."
Olmo praises the level of the Egyptian national team in the World Cup
Olmo praised the surprises the tournament witnessed, as he continued his statements saying: "Cape Verde was a big surprise, as were Egypt and Paraguay, and I also liked Norway a lot."
He also stressed that his ambition had not changed after winning the title with his national team, as he said: "The goal every season is to win everything with Barcelona and the national team."
He commented on the brawl that erupted after the World Cup final against Argentina, following Roberto Ayala's statements, saying: "The person who admits regret but justifies the punch is probably not truly regretful, because he is lying and because I did not say anything to him, I do not need him to apologize."
He concluded his statements emphasizing the importance of conduct on the pitch, saying: "I want my children, my family, and the fans to be proud of the way we competed and our behavior, because football players are role models for children and new generations, and this is a great responsibility, and most importantly, we have become world champions after great effort."
