Spain star hints at retirement after Euro 2024 citing 'lack of respect' remarks

Spain star striker Alvaro Morta hinted at taking retirement at the end of the European Championship (Euro) 2024 as his team will face France in the semi-final on Tuesday.

Spain defeated hosts Germany in the quarter-final after a late goal by Mikel Merino and booked their spot in the last four where they will take on France at the Allianz Arena.

Morata is yet to find the back of the net in Euro 2024 as youngsters Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are leading Spain’s attack.

The former Real Madrid striker is currently serving as the vice-captain to veteran Jesus Navas and he is the fourth all-time top-scorer in Spain’s history with 36 goals.

However, despite being a big name, Morata stated that he does not get the respect he deserves in Spain as every time he is out with a football team, it is not the same as it is when he is out with his family.

"Yes, definitely. I have said it many times. Above all, because people respect me. In Spain there is no respect for anything or anyone,” Morata said.

"When I go with my family, everyone loves me, everyone treats me well. But when I go with a team, with football, it's totally different. Look, the other day, they said I was crying because I had been shown a yellow card. What nonsense is that.”

The striker also added that he would do everything to win the Euro before hinting at potential retirement from international football.

"I was crying because my country, with me as captain, had reached the semi-finals. I could never criticise a person who is there crying about that. Well, they criticise me, when I would cut off my hand to win the Euros.

"I'm trying to enjoy this tournament, which could be my last matches with the national team, and the future, whatever it has to be, will be. Maybe one day they'll even miss me. Every day the moment of leaving is getting closer, that's why I enjoy it, that's why I cry, that's why I'll cry with whatever comes next, for better or worse."