Fabian Ruiz has opened up about Spain's ambitious goal to make football history by becoming the first team to win consecutive Nations League titles alongside a European Championship. The PSG midfielder shared his thoughts ahead of Spain's crucial Nations League semi-final against France scheduled for tonight.
"We approach every match aiming to win and give our maximum on the field. We know we can make history by winning the Nations League, Euro, and Nations League again, as no team has ever achieved this," Ruiz told UEFA's press service.
The 28-year-old midfielder emphasized the exceptional talent within the Spanish squad and the family-like atmosphere that has been key to their recent success. He specifically pointed to their penalty shootout victory against the Netherlands as evidence of their unity.
Interestingly, Ruiz comes from Los Palacios y Villafranca, a small village in Seville that has produced three Spanish internationals – himself, Jesus Navas, and Gavi. This remarkable coincidence has become a source of local pride.
"It's unique – this has never happened before, and we're happy to represent our town across Spain and worldwide," Ruiz explained.
By the way, there's a peculiar tradition in his hometown involving their famous tomatoes. "People say our success is connected to the tomatoes because we grow amazing ones there. It's really a key feature of our town. Every time we win a title, they give us our weight in tomatoes. As a result, I got more tomatoes than Gavi and Jesus because I'm a bit heavier," he shared with a smile.
Ruiz also recalled his humble beginnings, playing football in parks with his older brother from the age of three or four, despite initially being considered too small to join the games. These street football experiences shaped his development before formal training.
The Spain-France semi-final kicks off tonight at 10 PM local time. Can Ruiz and his teammates continue their march toward making football history?
