Lopetegui: 'Carvajal and Pique? There is no reconciliation needed'
Julen Lopetegui spoke to the press ahead of Spain v Colombia in Murcia. He discussed Marco Asensio, and the challenge that Pékerman's team pose.
Julen Lopetegui, the manager of the Spanish national team, spoke to the media ahead of the friendly between Spain and Colombia in Murcia on Wednesday evening.
Find out how and where to watch Spain v Colombia.
Julen Lopetequi press conference before Spain v Colombia:
José Pékerman's Colombia side: “I see Colombia for what they are, a great team with a magnificent coach. They have a lot of continuity and they are solid. Our focus is on getting three points in Macedonia, but we have to face up against a strong rival [Colombia].
How the Colombia match will go: “It hasn’t escaped anybody’s attention that we have different circumstances. We’ll adapt ourselves and look for the best solutions. We’re optimistic and focused on playing well. In terms of who will or won’t play… whoever is selected is capable. There are six substitutions allowed, and we will use all six. We’d like to have more substitutions, but it is what it is.”
Marco Asensio: “The future of these players depends on their attitude, and how they focus on the present. Marcos, and other players, have talent, but also an emotional capacity and balance. The road to the top is difficult. You can’t wait for it, you have to work for it, and I am sure that Marco is doing that.”
The typical Colombian player: “They’re players with a lot of technical and physical ability. I had the chance to manage Quintero at Porto, whose quality is extraordinary… they’re good players, Colombia has a good generation of players, the same as us. “
Playing two matches after a break: “We will try to find the best way to manage our resources and be in the best possible state for the Macedonia match.”
The relationship between Carvajal and Piqué, after the former sang derogatory songs about the latter: “We are focussing on the two matches. We’re delighted by the atmosphere in the camp, it’s marvelous. We feel like a team. Everyone here plays for the national team with the same intensity as they do for their clubs. There doesn’t need to be any reconciliation, there has always been a great atmosphere.”