Spanish defender Aymeric Laporte has spoken candidly about his role with the national team, his mindset, and Spain’s ambitions at the World Cup. In a recent interview with El Mundo, the 32-year-old described his strong personality, calm presence, and leadership qualities, which have earned him the nickname “the boss” inside the dressing room. Laporte said he is comfortable with that image, while stressing that he simply tries to share his experience and stay true to himself.
Laporte said he is very happy to be at the World Cup, calling it an honor and the place where he enjoys football the most. He praised the team atmosphere, the style of play, and the cohesion among Spain’s players. According to him, being part of the squad remains a special experience because of the collective spirit and the excitement of international competition.
Born in France, Laporte obtained Spanish nationality in 2021 and committed his international future to Spain. Looking back on that decision, he said he believes it was the best choice he could have made. He pointed to the success Spain has enjoyed during his time with the team, including reaching the semifinals in 2021, winning the Nations League in 2023, and lifting Euro 2024. He also mentioned Spain’s run to the 2025 Nations League final, which ended in a penalty shootout defeat, as part of the learning process that comes with top-level tournaments.
For Laporte, those experiences have made his international career especially rewarding. He said that whether a team wins or loses, every competition provides valuable lessons. But he made it clear that one major goal remains unfinished: winning the World Cup. He described that as the greatest possible reward for Spain and as the dream of every Spanish player and supporter.
The defender also addressed the criticism he received after changing his national allegiance. He said he understands differing opinions and is not bothered by outside judgment. Laporte explained that he has learned to accept that not everyone will agree with his decisions, and that his main support comes from his family, friends, and teammates. He added that public opinion affects him less now than it did when he was younger, and that his loved ones have learned to deal with the scrutiny as well.
On the question of whether he cares if people like him, Laporte was direct: he always tries to do his best on and off the pitch, but he accepts that some will appreciate him and others will not. He said his honest and straightforward personality may not suit everyone, but that does not concern him.
Laporte also reflected on why he often appears serious or reserved. He said he does not trust many people and prefers to keep his distance to avoid being hurt again. He suggested that this attitude comes from past experiences, including events from childhood, and said those experiences have shaped who he is today.
In the end, Laporte summed up Spain’s mission simply: give everything from the first match to the last, reach the final, and win it.
