Carlos Espi says Real Madrid goal celebrations left him with little sleep

Carlos Espi says the excitement of scoring on his Real Madrid debut and preparing for his official presentation meant he barely slept before beginning life at the Spanish club.

The forward marked his first appearance for Real Madrid with the winning goal in a 2-1 victory over Espanyol on Saturday. He came on in the 80th minute as a substitute for Jude Bellingham and struck to give his new side their first league victory.

Speaking at his presentation as a Real Madrid player, Espi said joining the club was an immense source of pride for both himself and his family.

“Being at Real Madrid is a great source of pride. I am extremely happy for myself and for my family, and I will give everything I have for this club,” he said.

Espi also described his first impressions of the club’s facilities and Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, while praising Real Madrid’s record in European competition.

“I was very surprised to see the 15 Champions League trophies. This club is incredible, whether you are talking about the facilities or Santiago Bernabeu. They take care of every detail and, in footballing terms, I believe the team is the best in the world,” he added.

The striker admitted that the timing of his goal and presentation had made it difficult to rest.

“Between my happiness at yesterday’s goal and my excitement about attending my presentation, I did not sleep much,” Espi said.

He said the goal had created a memorable atmosphere among the team and those supporting him.

“The moment I scored was incredible. We were all in a state of euphoria and it was a source of pride for me to see everyone happy for me,” he said.

Espi is now looking forward to experiencing a full match at Santiago Bernabeu, with Real Madrid scheduled to face Real Sociedad there on Wednesday in their rearranged La Liga fixture.

“I am really looking forward to Wednesday arriving so I can see the atmosphere at Santiago Bernabeu for the match against Real Sociedad in La Liga,” he said.

Real Madrid signed Espi from Levante on a contract running until 2031. His arrival was followed immediately by a decisive contribution, as his goal secured a 2-1 win over Espanyol.

The result was described in the source article as Real Madrid’s first league win in the second round, while the match against Real Sociedad is their postponed fixture from the opening round of the competition. That game will take place at Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday, giving Espi the opportunity to make his first appearance in front of the club’s home supporters.