Isco has 'enough' level to be part of Spain squad, says Unai Simon

Athletic Club's international goalkeeper Unai Simon praised Isco Alarcon, who is returning to the Spanish national team after a six-year absence, and assured, after training together for the first time, that “it is surprising to see him up close” because of “the quality he has”.

“Isco has been the best or one of the best of Betis this season and of course he has enough level to be with us. Today was the first time I've trained with him and it's surprising to see him up close, the quality he has, that game and that calmness,” Unai Simón praised his new teammate.

The return of Isco so long after his return made Unai Simon appreciate the continuity that many internationals have. “In this national team there are many people who deserve to come, we are privileged because in all positions there are people who can be in the national team and stay home. Isco has always shown that he wanted to come, for his game, quality and desire. I congratulated him, he can give us many things from now on,” he said.

Isco returns at the age of 33 and is now playing alongside players from the new generation, such as Lamine Yamal, who is 17 years old.

“Living together in harmony in the group and that mix of veterans from whom the young players can learn, who have not played so many games, but we see them enjoying football with energy. We learn from each other and it is important to face the challenges ahead of us,” he said.

In that atmosphere, Spain is seeking its third consecutive title in the Nations League finals, where it will face France in the semifinals on Thursday.

“When we talk about the Spanish national team, what really defines this group and why we have won these recent titles has been because, despite having great players, we have worked as a team, we have always been a team, in good times and bad we have always been together and that is what makes the group go as far as possible. Later we may or may not win titles, but in order to be close we go like clockwork gears”, he emphasized.