Jana Fernández shares emotional story after Spain national team call-up

Jana Fernández reveals her emotional reaction upon receiving a call-up to Spain’s national team squad for the European Championship in Switzerland — an achievement that once seemed impossible after suffering a severe injury.

The 23-year-old defender underwent ACL surgery in 2022 and had to sit out for a year. “Three years ago, it was unthinkable that I would be here. When I received the national team call-up, I called my parents and cried,” she shared.

“These injuries are tough, more emotionally than physically. If you had asked me when I came out of surgery, I wouldn’t have believed I could be here.”

Spain will now face hosts Switzerland in the quarter-finals after achieving perfect results in Group B. Fernández emphasizes — despite their dominant performance, they’re not dwelling on their favorite status.

Her Barcelona teammate, Alexia Putellas, has also shown impressive form with three goals and four assists in this tournament. “If anyone is highly motivated, it’s her. Alexia contributes greatly to the team, both on and off the pitch,” says Fernández.