Carlos Puyol stated that leading the Spanish national team was an exceptional moment in his football career, emphasizing that waking up every day representing his country at the highest level was an indescribable feeling. He added during the Global Sports Summit in Dubai that «fame was not the goal in itself, but the responsibility that came with wearing the national team jersey and defending the colors of 'El Matador' at a pivotal time in Spanish football history». Puyol pointed out that the team at the time consisted of players from different schools, especially from Barcelona and Real Madrid, and despite the fierce rivalry between the clubs, the atmosphere in the national team was completely different. There was no division or conflict, but perfect chemistry in the dressing room, which is one of the main secrets of their success. The former Spain captain confirmed that what happened in 2010 was not just a championship, but a real shift in the team's mentality. Since then, a historic transformation occurred, as the idea of collective play and a clear identity took root, and even with a change of coach, the same core ideas remained. He continued: «Winning the World Cup was a confirmation of an exceptional generation, a generation that knew how to overcome differences and turn diversity into strength. Despite the challenges and divisions that later arose due to the competition between Barcelona and Madrid players, the team managed to maintain its unity and win the 2012 European Championship». Puyol concluded by emphasizing that 2010 was the moment of birth for a new mentality for the Spanish national team—a mentality of self-belief, teamwork, and the ability to make history. That period will remain one of the most beautiful and important in his football career.
