What did Álvaro Morata say about the criticism he has faced in Spain?

Álvaro Morata, now 31, has had a varied career. He has represented Real Madrid, Juventus, Chelsea and Atletico Madrid and is a stalwart for the Spanish national team, who he now captains.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente values his intelligence and ability to link the play, a crucial focal point for their talented wide players. He has even racked up a very impressive international scoring record, with 36 goals from 78 games ahead of Tuesday’s semi-final against France.

However Morata has recently complained that he receives a “lack of respect” in his native Spain, admitting that he was happier during his time with Chelsea and Juventus. “It is because people respect me,” Morata explained. “In Spain, there is no respect for anything or anyone.”

What did Álvaro Morata’s wife say about media criticism?

Morata’s comments sparked further criticism in the Spanish press, with some publications taking aim at the captain’s complaints. Reports have suggested that Morata is considering international retirement and could even leave Atleti to enable him to leave the country.

His wife, Alice Campello, has revealed the toll that the very public criticism can take on a player. In a statement posted on social media Campello wrote: “I hate to play the victim and stir up more controversy, but this doesn’t seem normal to me.”

She continued: “It amazes me that instead of encouraging a player you dedicate yourselves to trying to sink him... How do you think a person can give the maximum for his country when he feels that no one believes in him? What do you want to achieve with the headline? Generate more hatred towards a person?”

Morata has the chance to respond to critics in the best possible way and this Spain side enter the semi-finals as many experts’ tip to be crowned European champions. It may turn out to be his final action in a Spain shirt but Morata has already showed his value to his national team this summer.