Llorente: “I’d give the Ballon d’Or to a Spaniard”

Ballon d’Or and Ceuta

Marcos Llorente addressed the media during Atlético de Madrid’s Media Day and made his pick for the top individual award: as he said, “I’d give the Ballon d’Or… to a Spaniard.” He also spoke about Ceuta, insisting that “All Spaniards want Ceuta” and that opinions from others don’t matter to him.

Asked about the broader debate, the midfielder stressed that his stance is clear and that he doesn’t want to get into arguments that aren’t his business. In the same thread, he argued that what matters is the reality and that everyone is free to show their views.

Derby preview at the Metropolitano

On the clash with Real Madrid, Llorente said that while it’s technically “one more game” and the aim is three points, the derby carries extra weight: the opponent “always” makes things difficult, and the match is special for both sets of supporters.

He also gave an update on his condition. He claims he feels “very good, physically and mentally,” that the squad had limited vacation time, and that after the World Cup run, they are close to full capacity. He added that the new arrivals are adapting, pointing to a strong recent performance and saying he hopes to be at the same level on Sunday.

Finally, he commented on form across a packed schedule, noting that it’s hard to be at your best every week, though there’s “no excuse” and the key is to adapt to the sheer number of matches and travel. MARCA reports his statements ahead of the Sunday derby at the Metropolitano.