Betis central defender Bartra was interviewed by Marca before the European Association final. He has won everything in Barcelona and held up the trophy in Dortmund. He hopes to win the championship for the team again.
When I came to Betis 8 years ago, did I ever think about what I have experienced now?
"Dreams are there, but I know things will not happen overnight. They require great patience, step by step... We have experienced all kinds of moments, both good and bad, and we have come to this day."
How did Betis change your life?
"Betis changed everything about me. I had a difficult time in Germany, but the enthusiasm of Betis, football, Biramarin Stadium, and the staff and fans of the club made me smile again. I felt the love from everyone from the beginning, which also made me find fun in La Liga."
How is the difference between Baltras now in 2018?
"I always think that the key to life is to keep growing. Once I stop growing, part of my life will disappear. I have always believed in this and work hard to improve myself every day. The experience in Turkey (Trabzon on loan) gave me a lot of opportunities to reflect, especially in those lonely moments, when I began to understand what is really important in life. After coming here, especially after injuries, I understood the value of details and the importance of taking good care of myself. Although I used to do this, now I pay more attention to this aspect and cherish every day more."
As one of the captains, what do you emphasize the most before the finals?
"The most important thing is to let the team find a good balance between happiness, commitment and demand. Enjoy this moment and taste this moment because what we are experiencing was once just a dream, but now it has become a reality. Not everyone can have such a moment, and not every club can say that. Now, it is our turn. In this regard, happiness exists, and investment is extremely important, and everyone can feel it."
Which aspect of Chelsea worrys you the most?
"I watched their game against Manchester United a few days ago. They are a very comprehensive team, from defenders to midfielders to wingers and forwards, every line is very strong. This team is very good at fighting you, has excellent physical fitness, is young and full of vitality. I think we must stick to ourselves more and play at the best level than ever before, play with a fiery heart and a calm mind. Then compete, compete, be ourselves."
So what is the most anticipated by this Betis?
"There are mainly two aspects. First of all, many new players have joined the team this year, but the level of investment of everyone allows the team to play high-level football, not only fight for the Champions League, but also reach the European finals. This fully demonstrates the strength of the team, because building a successful team is not something that can be achieved overnight, but we almost did it. Secondly, the enthusiasm of Betis fans is our source of motivation, which makes everything very special."
Betis has Isco, Lo Celso and Anthony...
"Isco not only has excellent personal skills, but also has a very hard work and a team spirit. Lo Celso is a talented player, with his left foot skill and ability to break balance. As for Anthony, the most impressive thing is his mentality. Although he is a Brazilian and has the freedom and freedom unique to South American players, he Having a mentality closer to European players - firm and clear goals, this is the surprise he brought to me. "
If the European Association wins the championship, he will win two championships for Betis like Joaquin...
"I feel very proud and happy to create history in the club I love, and it is of great significance. I have a strong sense of belonging to Betis. This feeling is unique and extremely precious. It is not something that money can buy ”
Talking about Pellegrini
"He maintains a balanced way, his mentality, his common sense, never being high or inferior, sticks to his own way... This is why he became a coach. The most important thing is his winning mentality, he has to win every game, and I think this is crucial to Betis."
Remember the celebration after Betis won the Copa del Rey?
"I have won both Barcelona and Dortmund, but the experience I have brought to me is unique. Not only the number of people celebrating the scene, but also their status, the way they enjoy, their feelings, the passion, happiness, those expressions, eyes... are something I have never experienced before, I long to experience it again, which is what I want most now."