'Right now it's crazy': Morata reveals desire to return to Spain squad

Alvaro Morata has left the door open to returning to the Spain national team after missing the 2026 World Cup, although the Leganes striker admits competition for places has never been stronger. Morata, who has earned 87 caps for Spain, said he would still welcome the opportunity to represent his country again. 'I'm not closing the door on the national team, of course I'd like to return.' However, Morata acknowledged that earning another call-up will be extremely difficult given Spain's current options in attack. 'But let's be honest, right now it's crazy. I see it as very difficult because of the competition.' He highlighted the depth available to Spain in the No.9 position, mentioning Espí, Gonzalo, Chupe, Arnau and Samu alongside the established forwards. 'I think Spain has had the best level in every position for a long time.' Morata admitted that he would have loved to be part of Spain's World Cup-winning squad but understood why Luis de la Fuente left him out. 'I would have loved to be at the World Cup. But I went to New York almost feeling like I was part of it, because I saw so many players who started playing for the national team with me.' He revealed that De la Fuente contacted him before the preliminary squad was announced. 'Yes, De la Fuente called me to tell me I wasn't going. I think it was even before the preliminary list was announced.' Morata said he thanked the coach, understood the decision, and wished the team well. Morata also joked about a promise De la Fuente had made before the tournament. 'The only thing he didn't keep was his promise to me, because he said that if he won the championship, he was going to ride out on horseback with the Cup in his hand. Maybe he still has time (laughs).' Get all the latest La Liga & Spain news in our brand new app