Bryan Zaragoza appeared to hit back at ex-Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel after scoring Spain's winner against Switzerland in the Nations League.
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Zaragoza aimed dig at TuchelWas sent out on loan over language barrier Tuchel will take charge of England on January 1Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Zaragoza joined Harry Kane and Co at Bayern Munich from Granada in January 2024, but his stay at Bayern was short-lived as he was sent out on loan to Osasuna for the 2024-25 campaign. The winger reportedly struggled to adjust to life in Germany, with new England boss Tuchel telling reporters before his departure from Allianz Arena: "He doesn’t understand the language. Both German and English are difficult for him, and that is basic. We brought forward the signing [from the summer] to save time with this. I knew it would be a very big step for him."
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After returning to Spain this summer on a loan deal, the 23-year-old has had a fruitful start with Osasuna, having recorded five assists and a goal in 13 appearances for the club. He also scored the all-important final goal from the penalty spot in Spain's 3-2 win over Switzerland in their last Nations League group-stage clash on Monday.
WHAT BRYAN ZARAGOZA SAID
After starring for the European Champions, the player issued a fiery statement which has been construed as a reply to newly appointed England head coach Tuchel. Zaragoza told "Football is played with your feet, not with the language. I never lack the desire to represent my country. I was on the bench, I wanted to eat up the pitch, and I have shown it. My game is based on dribbling and every time I have the ball I try to do so. Taking the penalty was a show of personality."
AFPWHAT NEXT FOR THOMAS TUCHEL?
After spending years in club football, Tuchel has now turned his attention towards international football as he was appointed as the Three Lions' new head coach last month. The 51-year-old will formally join the team on January 1.
