Crystal Palace star Yeremy Pino has admitted he is ready to play at right-back for Spain this summer, just to get to the World Cup.
Mundo Deportivo report comments from the forward today, made in an interview with EFE. The 23-year-old admits he’s more nervous for Spain’s World Cup call-up than the UEFA Conference League Final.
Big week for Crystal Palace
The Spanish forward is facing a big week. First Luis de la Fuente is set to announced his Spain squad for the World Cup on Monday. He could be a part of that group, after featuring regularly for the European champions in recent months.
Then on Wednesday, Crystal Palace take on Rayo Vallecano in the Europa Conference League final. It’s their first European final, ever, and a chance to secure Europa League football next season alongside another trophy.
But the forward is more worried about the call-up on Monday than the big event on Wednesday.
“I’m nervous about whether they’ll call me up,” he said.
“It’s very difficult to make a 26-man squad for Spain because there are so many great players. Spain is one of the favourites to win the trophy, and I hope to be there. If not, I’ll support the team from home.”
The Crystal Palace forward wants to make it clear that he’s willing to play in any position for Spain should it be required.
“The coach knows I can play on both wings, centrally, and as a second striker,” he added.
“If he calls me up, I’m available to play right-back if needed. Luis (de la Fuente) knows what’s best for the team, and whatever happens, happens.”
Spain excitement
Yeremy Pino is now a regular for Spain, with 21 caps and four goals to his name so far. The Crystal Palace has been called up for the last three international breaks as well.
That would suggest he’s set to be a part of the group next week. Excitement around the Spanish team is high too, after a strong few years for them, including success at Euro 2024. He can understand that excitement.
“I understand people’s enthusiasm because in recent years, we’ve done a great job and achieved some very important things, like winning the European Championship,” he concluded.
“We’ve built a strong team and a family, and the results speak for themselves. We’ve gone many games unbeaten, so the excitement is understandable.”
