Tárrega: “It was the dream debut in a U-21 Euro”

Valencia CF defender César Tárrega speaks to VCF Media after his impressive debut in the UEFA Under-21 European Championship with the Spanish national team. The Aldaia-born player scored the winning goal against Slovakia and was named Man of the Match. During the interview, he received a special surprise call from his mother, Esther Requeni.

Official debut against Slovakia
 “I’m feeling great—really happy and excited about the first step we’ve taken in the Euro. Now it’s on to Romania, and we’re going for the win. It was the dream debut, couldn’t have been better. I'm very happy to help the team and secure the three points.”

Gol made in Valencia CF

“Dio la casualidad de que estábamos los tres involucrados en la jugada. Es un orgullo estos momentos con ellos, que ya llevamos tanto tiempo compartiendo vestuarios. Estoy muy contento”.

A goal made in Valencia CF
 “It just so happened that the three of us were involved in the play. Sharing moments like that with teammates I’ve spent so much time with in the locker room is a real source of pride. I’m really happy.”

Messages
 “I always say that anyone who remembers me and sends me a message, no matter what it says, it’s always special. It’s very emotional, and I feel truly grateful to the people around me. I really appreciate all the messages.”

Victory against Slovakia
 “We knew how important it was to start with a win. In tournaments like this, getting off to a strong start is crucial. We played the first half at a really high level. It was a shame because they turned it around in four minutes, but even so, we never lost focus, we kept pushing, kept believing, and we got the win.”

Best season as a professional
 “Personally, it definitely is. First of all, because it’s my first season in La Liga with Valencia CF. That gave me the chance to be here in the Euros. I always say football is a team sport, and if it hadn’t been for the team’s great final stretch of the season, I wouldn’t be here. I’m grateful to every one of my teammates. Thanks to them and the coaching staff’s work, I’ve made it here.”

Four Valencia CF players called up to Spain’s U-21 Euros squad
 “It’s a reward for the season we’ve had, especially the turnaround toward the end. It’s a great honor to share this moment with them. Representing your country in a major tournament is something I’ve always dreamed of. Doing it after a great end to the season, and alongside my teammates, makes me extremely grateful and proud.”

Family
 “They’re vital. They’re everything. They’ve always been there—for the good times and the bad. Thanks to them, I’ve followed the path I’m on. Because of their perseverance, hard work, and sacrifices… I’ll always be thankful to them.”