Emotional Joselu feels 'like an 18-year-old boy' after dream Spain debut

Spain’s most celebrated debutant in recent years, Joselu, has spoken on the joy of finally making his La Roja debut at age 32 as well as the feeling of scoring for the national team in his first game. 

The ex-Real Madrid and Stoke City forward has been in superb form for Espanyol in the 2022/23 season, with 17 goal contributions in 27 games for the Catalan club, and was rewarded with his first game for the national team against Norway in Spain’s EURO 2024 qualifying fixture. 

Joselu made his debut as a substitute in new manager Luis de la Fuente’s first game in charge of Spain, becoming the oldest debutant in the Spanish national team since at least 2006. 

He made an immediate impact in the game, scoring two minutes after being brought on, and scored a second goal just one minute later to write his name into the La Roja history books. 

Speaking after the game, Joselu, who turns 33 tomorrow, said he was still in shock over his incredible debut performance, stating that the opportunity to shine La Roja had revitalised him, and made him feel young again. 

“I still cannot believe it. It’s the best a player can wish for. Hard work pays off, that’s what gives me strength to continue. I feel like an 18-year-old boy!”

Joselu could be in action again with Spain when they take on Scotland in their second EURO 2024 qualifying game on Tuesday and will be looking to continue his dream start to international football.