Arsenal’s Cristhian Mosquera believes he has a shot to go to the World Cup with Spain, after making his debut for the national team on Friday.
Arsenal centre-back Cristhian Mosquera made his debut for Spain as a substitute on Friday, coming off the bench for seven minutes in a 3-0 international friendly win over Serbia.
But though it was Mosquera’s first appearance for his national team, he remains confident that he’s in a good position to make the World Cup squad this summer.
“If I’m here, it’s because there are options to go (to the World Cup),” Mosquera told the media after his debut. “In the end, my job is at my club, and when I’m here I give my 100%, and in the end the manager is the one who decides.”
Mosquera wasn’t guaranteed to pick Spain over Colombia, as he’s eligible for both countries. When asked about his desire to play for Spain over the alternative, the defender pointed out that he’s been representing Spain for a long time now.
“I have a long history with the (Spanish) youth national teams,” Mosquera highlighted. “I’m very happy, and as I always say, whenever I’m asked about this, I’m very calm. My family and I have always been very calm, and patience is the key to opening doors.
“I think Spain is among the favorite teams (for the World Cup), of course they are, I have no doubt about that, in the end it has been showing the national team for quite a long time that it is in the top.”
Like Mosquera, none of Arsenal’s other Spain internationals were included in the starting lineup against Serbia. David Raya was an unused substitute on the day, whilst Martin Zubimendi played the final 13 minutes off the bench.
Kepa Arrizabalaga wasn’t called up for the break, with Spain having strong options in goal at the moment. Unai Simon is the team’s first-choice goalkeeper, but having Raya and Joan Garcia as backups is about as good as any national team could ever hope for.
Then Mikel Merino will probably be involved in the World Cup if he can get fit in time, but he’s a long way off full fitness right now.