Álvaro Valles on De la Fuente selection: “So many great goalkeepers”

Álvaro Valles, the Real Betis goalkeeper, spoke on Radio MARCA Sevilla about his strong start to the season and how he views being left out of Luis de la Fuente’s Spain squad. The shot-stopper from La Rinconada says his best period is closely linked to the team’s performance: if the squad is running at a high level, it becomes easier for him to deliver too.

On his personal progress, Valles highlighted that he had to rebuild after a difficult previous spell. “After that year without competition… at the beginning I wasn’t at my best level,” he said, adding that, match by match, he grew into his rhythm and now believes he is at his best. He also pointed to the physical work: from pre-season, Betis placed more emphasis on the gym and individual training, and he claims the difference is already showing.

Clean sheets and attacking balance

Valles also explained what “zero” at the back means for Betis. In his view, the team creates plenty going forward, and the calm factor comes from knowing that “some chance will go in.” If finishing doesn’t arrive, he tries to help from behind: when Betis doesn’t concede, the lead is often enough to win.

On De la Fuente and Spain’s depth

When talking about De la Fuente, Valles was clear about the selection dilemma. He understands the task because Spain has “many and very good goalkeepers,” making it tough for any single keeper to take a spot. He also commented on the call-up of Josep Martínez, saying he didn’t surprise him and that he’s happy for the Inter goalkeeper, stressing they have a good relationship “from years back.”

Finally, Valles underlined his priorities: he wants to keep his consistency with Betis and help the club every match, with national-team recognition dependent on form, but the goal being to stay at that same level all season, as he said on Radio MARCA.