After representing the under 21 French national team, Basque centre-back Aymeric Laporte who plays for Athletic Club has decided to change his mind and play for Spain instead of France. This summer he came very close to sealing his fate with the French national team, but a nasty leg fracture set him back and got him thinking about his future with any national team he chose. This was a turning point for him, the announcement was made by Spanish journal Marca this Tuesday.
Turns out that after missing out on the European Championship in France and Julen Lopetegui was announced as the new Spain manager, he started looking for Laporte in order to convince him to play for him. In Julen's eyes, Laporte has everything to succeed very important players such as Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique for when they choose to retire. That's the main reason why Laporte decided to change his mind.
Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke was very pleased with the great news and welcomed Laporte: "Laporte is a great player. If he comes, the more competition we have, the better. The coach comes with the idea of having the ball and exerting high pressure. We will gradually learn what he wants. Lopetegui is close and attentive, hopefully it will be a good stage for all."
Winger Lucas Vazquez also added: "Laporte has made great seasons with Athletic Club. Competition is good for everyone."
Photo credit: Seleccion Española