Laporte takes aim at critics after strong Spain Euros start

DONAUESCHINGEN, Germany: Spain defender Aymeric Laporte fired a shot at his critics on Saturday after his fine display against Italy at Euro 2024.

The 30-year-old centre-back, now playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, started as Spain defeated the reigning champions 1-0 on Thursday to qualify for the last 16 top from Group B.

Laporte missed the opening 3-0 win against Croatia with a muscular problem and some Spanish media speculated over whether he was at the right level to play for La Roja after a year in the Saudi league. "They said everything, there was a lot of speculation and not enough information to come out with so many opinions," Laporte told a news conference ahead of the third group match against Albania on Monday.

"There´s a lot of bad information out there that generates more headlines... I prepared myself (to play at the Euros)."

Laporte arrived in Germany after his team-mates, and coach Luis de la Fuente said although the former Manchester City player could have featured against Croatia, it was better not to take risks.

"I played 90 minutes against Italy and I feel good," added Laporte.

"I spoke with the (Spain) coach before taking the decision to go to Saudi Arabia.

"For me the national team is very important, it´s one of the most important things in my career.