Álvaro Morata is a name synonymous with Spanish football. The 31-year-old striker captains his national team and spearheads the attack for Atlético Madrid. Here’s a look at his career trajectory, recent headlines, and the future of this talented forward.
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Álvaro Morata’s Early Career and Rise at Real Madrid
Born in Madrid in 1992, Álvaro Morata began his professional career at Real Madrid, rising through their youth academy.
- He made his senior team debut in 2010 and quickly gained recognition for his pace, finishing ability, and technical skills. However, playing opportunities were limited at Real Madrid due to the presence of established stars like Karim Benzema and Gonzalo Higuaín.
- After winning the 2013–14 UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid, he moved to Serie A club Juventus in 2014.
- At Juventus, Morata won the club’s domestic league and the Coppa Italia in both seasons.
Chelsea and Return to Spain
- In 2017, Morata joined Premier League Chelsea for a club-record fee of around £60 million.
- In January 2019, he returned to Spain on loan to join Atlético Madrid and later joined the club permanently in July 2020.
- Morata’s time at Atlético Madrid has been eventful, with ups and downs.
Loan Spells and Establishing Himself
Álvaro Morata embarked on several loan spells at Juventus and Chelsea, showcasing his talent in different leagues. He eventually returned to Atlético Madrid in 2019, initially on loan, before moving permanently in 2020. At Atlético, Morata has found a more consistent role, playing alongside the likes of Luis Suárez and João Félix.
Captaincy and Euro 2024 Controversy
Álvaro Moratawas named captain of the Spanish national team in 2023. However, his tenure has been overshadowed by controversy.
Euro 2024 has seen him face criticism from some sections of the Spanish fanbase for his performances. He has even hinted at leaving the national team and Spain altogether due to the negativity he receives.
“In Spain, it’s hard for me to be happy,” Álvaro Morata said. “Without a doubt [I’m happier outside of Spain]. I’ve said it many times. Above all, because people respect me. In Spain, there’s no respect for anything or anyone.”
t isn’t nice,” he said. “That’s why I still think, although I’m focused on the Euros, that I don’t know if I should stay in Spain … I’ve said I’m dying to win trophies with Atlético, but then you have to weigh up if it’s worth it or not.”
“In football, nothing is certain,” Morata added in an interview with El Desmarque.
This has sparked debate amongst fans and pundits, with some defending Morata‘s contributions and criticizing the harsh treatment he receives. Others point to his inconsistency in front of goal, particularly compared to other world-class strikers.
Despite the criticism, Álvaro Morata remains a vital player for club and country. His teammates value his leadership qualities and experience; his goalscoring ability is undeniable.
Looking Ahead: Can Morata Silence the Doubters?
Euro 2024 is a crucial tournament for Álvaro Morata. A strong performance could silence his critics and solidify his position as Spain’s captain. However, the pressure and negativity may intensify if he struggles to find the net.
Morata wants to continue his partnership with João Félix at the club level and help Atlético Madrid compete for trophies in the upcoming season. His work ethic, dedication, and ability to link up with teammates make him a valuable asset for Diego Simeone.
Álvaro Morata is a talented footballer at a pivotal point in his career. How he responds to his challenges and criticisms will determine his legacy in Spanish football.
