Athenea del Castillo, the talented winger for Real Madrid and the Spanish national team, recently opened up about her experiences and aspirations in an engaging interview with Juanma Castaño on El Partidazo de COPE. The conversation touched upon various topics, including her dreams, the current state of her club, and the upcoming challenges for the national team as they prepare to face Portugal in the UEFA Nations League.
"I’m super happy. Wearing the Real Madrid and national team jersey is a privilege, a dream I’ve had since I was a child, and every concentration is special for me," Athenea expressed, radiating enthusiasm for her role in both teams. However, she acknowledged a sense of disappointment regarding Real Madrid's recent elimination from the Champions League, stating, "We’re a little sad about what happened. The team didn’t perform well, and we wanted to have a perfect week, but it didn’t turn out that way." Athenea's candidness reflects the emotional investment she has in her club's success.
Despite the setback, Athenea remains focused on the positives and welcomes constructive criticism. "I embrace all constructive criticism directed at me, the coach, or the team, but I try to ignore the destructive ones. The team is strong, united, and we all know that playing for Real Madrid comes with its challenges—criticism is part of it," she said, highlighting the resilience of her squad.
One of the highlights of Athenea's career thus far was the recent victory in a Clásico match against Barcelona, which she described as a "liberation." She recalled the joy in the locker room, admitting, "I cried because I’m very sensitive. We’ve had many Clásicos where things didn’t go as we’d hoped, and for me, it was a huge release." This victory marked a significant moment for her and the team, reinforcing their determination to compete at the highest level.
In the midst of discussing the Clásico, Athenea addressed a controversial moment during the match when a Barcelona goal was disallowed for offside. "I didn’t see the play live, but when I watched the replay, I think it’s fair to acknowledge that it was not offside. Mistakes happen, and they happen in many women’s league matches without receiving as much attention because it’s not a Clásico," she remarked, showing her understanding of the scrutiny that both men's and women's football face.
When it comes to her relationships with players from rival teams, Athenea maintains a positive rapport with Barcelona stars like Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí. "I get along well with everyone. I’m surrounded by the best players in the world, both here and at my club," she noted, emphasizing the camaraderie that exists among elite athletes.
Athenea also addressed the evolving dynamics within the Spanish national team, stating, "I believe everything is healed in this selection. We’re in a new phase with new people, and everything is settled now." She expressed her satisfaction with the support the team is receiving, indicating that they are finally getting what they need to perform at their best.
On the topic of financial equity in sports, Athenea clarified that female players are not demanding to be paid the same as male players like Vinicius. "I want minimum rights to ensure that when I retire, I have a foundation to stand on. I want something dignified for myself and all my teammates," she explained, advocating for basic rights and respect for women in sports.
Reflecting on the differences between men’s and women’s football, she acknowledged the historical advantages that male teams have enjoyed. "It’s football, but each has its own path. They have many years of experience, resources, and media coverage. I’m aware of what I generate and what I do, and we’re growing. Clubs like Real Madrid are helping us gain visibility," she stated, highlighting the progress being made.
Florentino Pérez, the president of Real Madrid, has been a supportive figure for the women’s team, according to Athenea. "I know he’s there because I see him in the tunnel, and he’s very attentive to us. He’s there more than you think," she mentioned, underscoring the connection between the players and the club's leadership. Athenea expressed her desire for the women’s team to play at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu stadium, saying, "I want to play a match at the Bernabéu, and I’ve told Florentino. I believe it’s something that will happen in the future."
When asked about her past comments regarding never playing for Barcelona, Athenea remained firm in her stance: "No, I don’t regret saying that. My principles and values come first. I’m a Madridista since childhood." She further emphasized that she would rather change professions than play for Barcelona or Atlético Madrid, reinforcing her loyalty to Real Madrid.
As the conversation shifted back to the national team, Athenea acknowledged the expectations placed on them. "We are demanding enough to know that Spain can play better. We might have spoiled people by always winning, but this is a learning experience, and when it matters most, we will play like angels," she said, addressing the pressure to perform consistently well.
Finally, when posed with the question of choosing between winning the Eurocopa with Spain or the Champions League with Real Madrid, Athenea did not hesitate: "If you ask me about the Champions League, I’d say the Champions League. I’d prefer that because I’ve already won the World Cup, and that’s top for me. Experiencing that with Real Madrid would be the ultimate dream since childhood."
Athenea del Castillo’s commitment to her team, her candidness in discussing challenges, and her aspirations for the future reflect the dedication and passion that define her career. As she prepares for the upcoming matches with the national team, fans eagerly await to see how she and her teammates will rise to the occasion.
