Spain’s Bryan Zaragoza Subtly Criticizes Thomas Tuchel After Match-Winning Goal

Bryan Zaragoza, the Osasuna winger on loan from Bayern Munich, made headlines after a dramatic display in Spain’s 3-2 victory over Switzerland in Monday’s Euro 2024 qualifier. Zaragoza, who scored the decisive penalty in stoppage time, appeared to aim a veiled criticism at former Bayern manager Thomas Tuchel during a post-match interview.

“Football is played with your feet, not with the language,” Zaragoza told Cadena SER. “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.”

This comment was widely interpreted as a response to Tuchel’s earlier remarks about Zaragoza during their time at Bayern Munich. Tuchel had justified the winger’s limited game time by saying, “He doesn’t understand the language. Both German and English are difficult for him, and that is basic. We brought forward the signing to save time with this. I knew it would be a very big step for him.”

Zaragoza’s on-field performance has done much of the talking since his return to Spain, where he’s thriving with Osasuna. With a goal and five assists in 13 La Liga appearances this season, Zaragoza is one of the league’s top creators, behind only Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, and Vinícius Júnior. His standout performances, including dismantling Barcelona earlier this season, underline his immense potential.

As for his international exploits, Zaragoza’s match-winning contribution for La Roja may have cemented his place as a key figure for Spain, while simultaneously raising questions about Bayern Munich’s decision to let him leave on loan.