Aymeric Laporte Explains Why He Chose Spain Over France

Aymeric Laporte says his decision to represent Spain was rooted in belonging rather than the medals that have followed, after helping the world champions to the 2026 World Cup. The Athletic Club centre-back, who completed his change of international association in May 2021, has become a central figure in Luis de la Fuente’s defence.

Key takeaways

• Laporte says his connection to Spain is strengthened by his wife, children and family life in the country.
• The 32-year-old previously led France at several youth levels but did not receive a senior opportunity under Didier Deschamps.
• An early attempt to begin the naturalisation process failed before discussions restarted around two years later.
• Spain have added the 2026 World Cup to their recent European Championship and Nations League successes during Laporte’s international career.
• Laporte played the entire match as Spain beat England 3-2 at Wembley and will next face Croatia in Seville on Tuesday.

A choice shaped by Bilbao and family ties

Laporte was born in Agen and spent his early years in France, leaving at 15 to join Athletic Club in Bilbao. Although he retains strong affection for the country of his birth and comes from a French family, he explained that his life in Spain ultimately gave the international choice a personal significance.

He said that winning major honours had not altered the pride he feels in wearing Spain’s shirt. His wife, family and children are Spanish, while his development as a player and person was closely linked to Athletic after the club welcomed him as a teenager.

Laporte also described the federation change as an opportunity that had to be taken when it became available. There had been contact roughly a year and a half to two years before the move was finalised, but that first process did not progress. When talks resumed, Spain made clear that they wanted him in the squad and both sides agreed to proceed.

France frustration followed by Spain success

The defender’s France pathway had once appeared straightforward. He captained Les Bleus at youth level, but his senior prospects stalled under Deschamps, who did not select him. Laporte said that rejection prompted him to reassess his position, despite the depth of French patriotism and his attachment to his first nation.

His eligibility switch has since delivered the biggest prizes in international football. Spain have won the European Championship, the Nations League and now the 2026 World Cup during his time with the national side.

Laporte remains part of De la Fuente’s plans in the current Nations League campaign. After completing 90 minutes in the 3-2 win over England at Wembley, the former Manchester City and Al-Nassr defender will aim to help Spain maintain their momentum when Croatia visit Seville on Tuesday.