It isn’t normal for someone to give up his holidays...

I don’t know if is or not, but that’s what I’m going to do. I haven’t been lucky enough to play in the Under-21 Euro yet, so I must think about my immediate future, which involves returning to Real Madrid in the pre-season. I will rejoin the team on 10 July, like many of my team-mates. I don’t want to miss a single minute.

Depending on how well Spain fares in the Euro you may end up with just a two-week holiday... Is that enough?

I think it is. My goal is to regain my strength as soon as possible. We are very excited about the coming season because there is an exciting new project in store, we have a new technical staff and new players will join the team. That helps us be positive and will make us work with much intensity in July and August, which are vital months to prepare physically for the rest of the season.

Are Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo decisive players?

The Club has strengthened itself with great players that get the fans excited. Everyone’s waiting to see how we face our new challenges.

What does playing for Spain mean to you?

It is a great honour and intensely satisfying to play for Spain in whatever category. Getting called-up helps me work harder for my club. The greatest thing that can happen to a player is being asked to play for his country.

Iker and Sergio Ramos have reached the semis of the Confederations Cup. Is Spain the latest trend in football?

I am very happy for them. They are extraordinary team-mates that enjoy their international games to the fullest. The team is on a high and plays very good football. I hope the final pits Brazil and Spain against each other. We all dream about that happening.