Olmo: There was a possibility to represent Croatia, and this does not affect my performance

Dani Olmo appeared at a press conference ahead of Spain's match against Croatia on Tuesday evening in the UEFA Nations League.

Dani Olmo has stated that Croatia will be more dangerous in the upcoming match, saying: "We expect Croatia to be more dangerous. We know them well, and they haven't played an easy match recently. We are ready for a tough encounter in front of a fantastic crowd."

Barcelona player spoke about the development of his teammate Lamine Yamal, especially in terms of scoring, saying: "He is developing more and more. He wanted to improve this aspect, and he is indeed doing so. He is a very important player for his club and for the national team, and we are happy with the level he is showing, which is evident in every match."

Regarding the expected fan atmosphere in Croatia, Olmo explained that he knows well the nature of the big matches there, saying: "I can say that the match will be very exciting. I have not played against Croatia here before, but I have played in Croatian derby matches between Hajduk and Dinamo, and the fans will support their team strongly. It will be a beautiful match in football."

Olmo also spoke about the difference between what Hans Flick, the coach of FC Barcelona, asks of him and what Luis de la Fuente, the manager of Spain, requires, explaining that the differing instructions do not negatively affect his performance.

He said: "That doesn't affect my performance. They are different coaches, although their styles are similar, and each asks for different things. At FC Barcelona, I am more direct and attack spaces, while I have more freedom here. But I feel comfortable in both ways, and I believe I can offer more."

Dani Olmo has recalled his memories with Croatia, which he moved to at a young age to join Dinamo Zagreb, confirming that the club played an important role in his development. He explained: "Everyone has their story and reasons. What drove me to make this decision was Dinamo's interest in developing me; they believed I could become the player I am today. I trusted them when I was sixteen years old."

He said: "It was just my mother and I in a new country, and it was a tough but beautiful time. I have strong feelings and love for this country, and they are different feelings that I think show. I am very happy to be back, and for me, it will be a very special match."

Dani Olmo revealed that the idea of representing Croatia was previously on the table, saying: "There was a possibility, and they told me they were interested in me. I have always said that Croatia was special to me, but my dream has always been to play for Spain."

Regarding the impact of the international break on players, he explained: "Whether with the national team or the club, physical loads are managed in the way they see fit. I don't think this will diminish anyone's readiness, as we are all professionals."

Dani Olmo has confirmed that he is not overly concerned about the number of minutes he has played this season, despite not yet reaching 500 minutes. He said: "I haven't thought about it from that perspective, whether it's about managing minutes by increasing or decreasing. I feel good and ready for every match, and that's what I focus on, being ready when they tell me that I will play."

Olmo concluded his remarks by revealing his feelings about returning to Croatia, saying: "It is a country that has given me everything I have today. Having the opportunity to play against Croatia, even if the match is not in Zagreb, remains something special and emotional. My family will come, along with many of my friends, and I am really looking forward to tomorrow's match."