According to AS, Aitor Karanka, Technical Development Director of the Spanish Football Federation, stated at the Portugal Football Summit that he hopes a Spanish player wins the Ballon d'Or, adding that Spain has many worthy candidates for the award.

Karanka was invited to participate in the keynote speech "Building a FIFA World Cup Champion: Spain's Winning Model". He spoke about his journey from player to coach to joining the Spanish Football Federation: "I was waiting for an opportunity as a coach, and I didn't expect the federation to suddenly offer me this invitation. I saw the chance to complete this cycle. First, as a player, then Hierro pushed me to get my coaching license. After that, I joined various Spanish youth teams, and later became Mourinho's assistant coach at Real Madrid. Then I decided to try being a first-team head coach to see if I could manage it. Now, with Spain, I've completed this cycle."

Regarding his responsibilities, Karanka said: "My daily work is different every day. The main thing is ensuring that the coach, technical staff, and players have no problems. I maintain contact with clubs that have international players."

Speaking about Spanish youth development, Karanka stated that there are players of exceptional talent across all age groups. He said: "The senior team won the FIFA World Cup, the U21 team is unbeaten for a year, the U19 team is world champions, and the U17 team will participate in the FIFA World Cup this year... Spanish players understand the game, and almost all have a coach inside them. This talent and development will ultimately be reflected on the pitch."

Karanka believes that winning the FIFA World Cup requires everything to be perfect, and the Spanish team has players of exceptional talent and excellent team chemistry. He also stated that it won't be easy for Spain to defend their European Championship title, and that the coach and technical staff, having worked with the federation for many years, have been a great help to the team.

When asked about Ballon d'Or candidates, Karanka mentioned Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Fabián. He said: "Spanish football is experiencing a fortunate moment. Beyond the quality and talent on the pitch that everyone can see, off the pitch they are also excellent young people. So I hope a Spaniard wins; I think they deserve it, and we have many worthy candidates."

Speaking about Mourinho, Karanka said: "Real Madrid didn't win a title for two years. Real Madrid is the most demanding club in the world, and if anyone can achieve a perfect 10, it's Mourinho. A difficult start is normal; Barcelona has been performing very well for three consecutive seasons under Flick. Difficulties are normal, but I always say this: Mourinho can bring out the best in his players." Karanka also stated that if Florentino Pérez brought Mourinho back, he believes their relationship would be very good and would last a long time at Real Madrid.

Tradotto dall'IA.

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