Atlético Madrid defender Marc Pubill has admitted he’s dodging controversy in Spain’s camp during this World Cup, by refusing to bring up any grievances with Arsenal duo Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino.
Marca report comments from the Atlético man today. He’s still harbouring frustration from the Champions League semi-final defeat to Arsenal last month.
Arsenal controversy
The 23-year-old made it clear that Arsenal’s victory over Atlético left more than just sporting disappointment behind. He reflected on the aftermath of that tie and singled out the behaviour of one Arsenal player that stayed with him after the final whistle.
“Gyökeres celebrated right in my face when the referee blew the final whistle,” he explained when asked about the loss.
He was not eager to expand in the incident, though, especially when other Arsenal names were raised.
The defender is current in the Spain squad with Gunners duo Merino and Zubimendi. So he has had ample opportunity to share his displeasure. It seems he won’t be doing that, however.
“We haven’t discussed it and I don’t want to talk about it because otherwise…” he added, leaving the ending to interpretation. He then explained that he’s not talked about it with any other Arsenal players either. Instead, he’s focused on the present.
World Cup focus
That includes a World Cup campaign with Spain alongside the Arsenal duo. The Spanish are already on the back foot in that thanks to a surprising draw with Cape Verde in their opening game.
That’s left Luis de la Fuente’s side, who are among the favourites, needing to up their game. They now face Saudi Arabia and Uruguay needing to win to ensure qualification to the knockout stages.
And it means there’s no time for past controversies to be splitting the group down the middle. That’s even if it’s quite obvious that the Atlético Madrid defender is still dwelling on that loss to Arsenal and Gyökeres’ exuberant celebration.
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