Marc Roca’s seven-year wait ends with first Spain call-up

Marc Roca has described his first selection for Spain’s senior team as the reward for seven years of patience, hard work and recovery from surgery.

The Real Betis midfielder was included in Luis de la Fuente’s latest squad for the Nations League, having previously worked with the manager during his time with Spain Under-19s and Under-21s. His selection was one of the notable surprises in the squad that has just been crowned world champions.

Roca spoke about the significance of the call-up at a news conference on Tuesday, acknowledging that competition for his position remains intense despite Rodri’s absence.

“It is always a pleasure to be here,” Roca said. “I wish Rodri was not injured, but now it is my turn to be here. I am extremely excited and eager to help the team.

“I have worked hard for a long time and shown that I have the level required to be here.”

A dream seven years in the making

Roca said reaching Spain’s senior side had been a long-term ambition rather than an unexpected opportunity.

“I have always worked and dreamed of playing for the senior national team,” he said. “My journey has been a long one, but I have always kept this goal in mind.

“I am celebrating it with great enthusiasm. I value this achievement even more because sometimes these things happen quickly and repeatedly for others, whereas I have waited a long time – seven years.

“That is why I am receiving it with immense happiness, great joy and deep personal satisfaction.”

The 29-year-old also thanked De la Fuente for placing his faith in him, praising the manager’s qualities both on and off the pitch.

“We know his personality even before we consider his footballing ability,” Roca said. “We have always seen him as a coach with great ability and outstanding talent. He also has that warm human spirit which helps a team give its best.

“We hope he continues to achieve everything he wants for many years to come.”

Roca will reunite with several former Under-21 team-mates in the senior squad, including Unai Simon, Fabian Ruiz and Mikel Oyarzabal. He believes that shared experience should make adapting to the senior side easier.

“The essence of the national team is the same as that of the Under-21 team,” he said. “The identity is the same and our style of play is similar. It is easy to settle in when you have team-mates with such great talent.”

From surgery to Spain

Roca also reflected on the difficult period that preceded his call-up. “A year and a half ago, I underwent surgery, and it was one of the best decisions I have made in my life,” he said.

His move to Real Betis proved another important step in his career. “Pellegrini has always given me confidence and security,” Roca added. “He created a great environment and an outstanding team where I could express myself. Today, I am reaping the rewards of my efforts.”

Roca is now preparing for Spain’s upcoming Nations League matches against Czechia and England. Spain face Czechia on 12 November 2026 in Nations League Path One, but before either fixture, Roca knows he has already secured the biggest victory of his career: the triumph of patience.