Aymeric Laporte claps back at criticism and proves his worth on Spain's Euro journey

Spain defender Aymeric Laporte responded to critics questioning his selection for the European Championship due to his move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia from Manchester City. Despite doubts about his readiness, Laporte delivered a strong performance in Spain's 1-0 victory over Italy. He expressed frustration at the misinformation and excessive scrutiny surrounding his decision, emphasizing his commitment to competing at the highest level for Spain. Laporte, who became a naturalized Spaniard in 2021, highlighted the lack of accurate information fueling speculation about his capabilities. He affirmed his preparation for the Euros and his determination to contribute to the national team's success. Coach Luis de la Fuente supported Laporte's decision to prioritize his fitness, leading to his impactful display against Italy. The defender acknowledged the challenges faced by European players in the evolving Saudi league but defended its potential for growth and competitiveness. Laporte's partnership with fellow French-born player Robin Le Normand on the field contributed to Spain's success, showcasing their effective communication and teamwork. Despite initial skepticism, Laporte pointed to standout performances by players like N'Golo Kante in the Saudi league as evidence of its quality. In the face of criticism and doubts, Laporte's resilience and dedication to representing Spain at Euro 2024 shone through in his response to detractors. His performance on the pitch against Italy demonstrated his readiness and commitment to making a significant impact for his national team. As Laporte navigates the challenges of playing in a new league and defending his choices, his focus remains on achieving success with Spain at the highest level of competition.