The defender has described his Spain call-up as a “surprise” and a “dream” and says he wants to help keep the nation the best in the world
Marc Bartra says he feels at home alongside his Barcelona team-mates in the Spain squad – and is even pleased to be among rival Real Madrid players.
Bartra has stepped into first-team action at Camp Nou this season following injuries to Carles Puyol, Javier Mascherano and Gerard Pique, making nine appearances in all competitions.
And after another of his Barca team-mates, Cesc Fabregas, withdrew from Vicente del Bosque’s squad for the friendlies against Equatorial Guinea and South Africa, Bartra was drafted in for the first time – much to his surprise and delight.
“It was a very nice surprise to be in my first call with the seniors,” the 22-year-old centre-back said. “It’s a dream for me.
“It is important to feel at home here, not only with the Barcelona players, but with league rivals.
“The most important thing is to serve the team and add to that we remain the best team in the world.”
Spain’s clash with Equatorial Guinea on November 16 is their first friendly since successful qualification for World Cup 2014.