Borja Iglesias reflected on the emotional reality of Spain’s historic World Cup victory and the immediate return to club duties with Celta de Vigo, describing a tournament journey that mirrored the childhood memories of the country’s 2010 triumph. Nearly a month after the national team secured its second world title in New York, the forward discussed the overwhelming support from fans, the backing of his club teammates, and the upcoming ambitions in LaLiga.
The forward recounted that the magnitude of the achievement only truly hit the squad during the latter stages of the tournament. According to statements released by Celta de Vigo’s official media channels, Iglesias admitted that the players were largely sheltered from the fervent reactions back home until their semifinal victory against France. Once the final whistle blew in that match, the influx of digital media provided a stark reality check of the nation’s passion.
“We weren’t very conscious of the support we were receiving from Spain, of how the country was, of how the streets were because of the team’s progress in the World Cup until the semifinal against France,” Iglesias stated in comments published by the club. “After a brief celebration, we grabbed our phones and videos started arriving from our cities, our towns, with giant screens. Something much bigger than what we were experiencing inside was happening. That moment was the ‘click’ of saying ‘it has to be ours.’ The memory of what happened in 2010 returned, which we experienced on the street.”
Reflecting on a Childhood Dream and Overwhelming Support
For Iglesias, stepping onto the global stage offered a profound sense of nostalgia. The forward described the tournament as a return to early footballing emotions, echoing the days of sharing aspirations with childhood friends. Despite logging limited playing minutes—highlighted by a substitute appearance against Portugal—the reception he received upon returning to Galicia left a deep impression.
“What was generated around my person was a little overwhelming for me,” Iglesias noted regarding the public reaction. “My participation was not that great in terms of minutes, although I had the fortune to play against Portugal and debut. In many games I felt close to participating because I was warming up. With a player who participates so little, I didn’t expect what happened afterwards. I received a lot of affection, a lot of admiration, I have no words to thank it.”
The transition from international celebration to domestic preparation required a rapid shift in focus. Iglesias emphasized that the unwavering encouragement from Celta manager Claudio Giráldez and the club’s coaching staff provided stability throughout the tournament. Upon rejoining the squad ahead of the domestic campaign, Giráldez reinforced that every member of the club shares a piece of the international success.
Looking Ahead to LaLiga and Iago Aspas
As Celta de Vigo prepares for the new season, Iglesias highlighted the dual motivation of competing in European competition and sharing the pitch once more with veteran captain Iago Aspas. The club faces a demanding schedule as they balance continental fixtures with domestic league commitments.
“It is special to enjoy Iago,” Iglesias said, addressing the forward’s potential future decisions. “I still have the feeling that we can convince him, but without pressure. He has to decide, but I would like Iago to continue as long as he wanted because I see him train and compete and he continues to be a player of the highest level.”
Celta de Vigo is scheduled to continue its domestic preparations ahead of upcoming LaLiga fixtures. Readers seeking official club updates, match schedules, and ticketing information can consult the official Celta de Vigo official website.
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