Unai Marrero: "I am happy to have made people so happy"

The Real goalkeeper shares his experience after the Copa victory, discussing fan support and his career.

Close-up of a soccer ball on grass, with a blurred goal net.
IA

Close-up of a soccer ball on grass, with a blurred goal net.

Goalkeeper Unai Marrero has earned his place in Real's history thanks to his penalty saves in Seville's La Cartuja, and has shared his experience.

Goalkeeper Unai Marrero has earned his place in Real's history thanks to his penalty saves in the shootout at Seville's La Cartuja stadium, and has shared his experience. The player from Azpeitia highlighted his prominence in the tournament and the fans' support, as well as his reflections on his career and future goals.
After the final, Marrero expressed his happiness at making people happy: "We have achieved something great. In this past month, we have realized how much people are living the feat we have accomplished." The goalkeeper stated that he is content with the work done throughout the championship and especially with the final saves, although he acknowledges there is always room for improvement.
He admitted that the most special moment of the Copa was the final itself, but also the round of 16 match against Osasuna, which went to extra time and penalties. He also recalled the immense support he received from the fans during those moments, which moved him.
Marrero is very grateful for the warmth and affection he receives from the fans. "I feel that Real's fans give me tremendous support," he said. In the final against Atlético de Madrid, despite being ahead on the scoreboard, they saw the opponent pressing hard, but a talk among the players and the crowd's encouragement made them believe that winning the Copa was possible.
He explained that his movement before taking penalties, which people call a dance, helps him stay active and experience the moment better. "I achieve all of that in motion," he declared.
He emphasized the team's collective work and feels the victory belongs to everyone. Although he recalls Arconada's feat, he attributed the merit to the team's work. Regarding the song the fans sing to him, he heard it for the first time in the match against Osasuna, and finds it very special.
He acknowledged the importance of mental preparation for the final and, although the role of a substitute goalkeeper is not easy, he indicated that he will continue working to get more opportunities. His main goal is to be Real's goalkeeper, and for that, he has renewed his contract until 2030.
Regarding the league season, despite a difficult start, he pointed out that the coaching change had a positive impact on the team. Looking ahead to next season, he believes this year should serve as a reflection and help achieve the necessary continuity. He added that the new coach, Rino Matarazzo, is a tall man who has helped transmit positive energy.
He will now take a break on his vacation but is already preparing mentally and physically for the upcoming season. His wish is to have greater continuity within the team.
He expressed pride in being from Azpeitia and highlighted his strong connection to the town. He admitted that his life has changed a bit since the final, as people recognize him more, but he moves around his town calmly with his friends.