Real Sociedad veteran opens up on rivalry with Barcelona ace: ‘It motivates me’ | OneFootball

The competition for places in the Spanish national team continues to intensify, especially in the goalkeeping department. 

With several high-level options available, every call-up becomes a talking point, and Real Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro is right at the centre of that battle.

Under national team coach Luis de la Fuente, the goalkeeping hierarchy appears relatively clear. 

However, Barcelona stopper Joan Garcia is widely expected to earn his debut soon. If that happens, it could directly affect players like Remiro, who are fighting to secure their place in the squad.

Remiro opens up on the rivalry

Speaking recently, the Real Sociedad goalkeeper admitted that some of the comments surrounding the competition have bothered him. 

Still, he made it clear that he understands the level of the players around him and is focused on his own performance.

“It bothers me when there have been derogatory comments, but I understand where I am.

“I understand the level of my teammates, and I understand the level of the goalkeeping, because it’s very high. 

“I’ve said it before: I’m focusing on this season, on proving that I can go and on preparing myself. If I do that, I’m at peace with myself. If I go, I’ll contribute from where I am.”

Quality in the national team

Joan Garcia is yet to make his national team debut. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Remiro also acknowledged the depth of quality Spain currently have between the posts.

He pointed out that there are several strong candidates, not just himself and the Barcelona goalkeeper.

“Spain’s goal has great goalkeepers. For example, Joan hasn’t gone yet, and neither has Robert Sanchez. 

“There are a lot of people who are at a good level, and that’s good for Spain and difficult for Luis,” he said.

On Sociedad vs Barcelona

The rivalry has also been highlighted in club matches. When Real Sociedad faced Barcelona, the clash was presented as a personal duel between the two goalkeepers. 

Remiro delivered an impressive performance that day, but he insists that such narratives do not trouble him.

“The one in Saudi Arabia was also presented as a face-off with Unai (Simon). It doesn’t bother me. It motivates me. 

“If you want to be at the top, this is one of the prices you have to pay. This handicap from the press and social media is there, and you have to know how to deal with it.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo