Roberto Fernández is now worth €30 million after Spain debut

Roberto Fernández is now part of Espanyol's long history. At 24, the forward from Puente Genil became the 49th Espanyol player to debut for Spain's senior national team, and he did it with a full performance: a starting role, 90 minutes on the pitch and a direct contribution to La Roja's 3-1 win over the Czech Republic.

• Roberto Fernández made his Spain debut as a starter and completed the full match against the Czech Republic.
• He came close to scoring twice and forced Ladislav Krejci's sending-off in the 85th minute.
• His release clause rises from €25 million to €30 million after becoming an international.
• Espanyol paid Sporting Braga €7.75 million for 62.5% of his rights.

Senior Spain debut with Espanyol in the spotlight

Espanyol's number 9, wearing 17 for Spain, led the line in an attack packed with talent alongside Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Álex Baena. He needed time to find his rhythm, but grew into the game and finished with a strong display that strengthens his case for future call-ups.

Two clear chances against the Czech Republic

Roberto went close to scoring twice, although the goal did not arrive. His movement between the Czech central defenders kept opening up space for the wingers and midfielders, a side of his game he highlighted after the final whistle.

I took hits everywhere, but I finished the game fine.

Forces Krejci's red card and suffers a cut in the 3-1 move

In the 85th minute he drew the second yellow card that led to Ladislav Krejci's sending-off, the defender having previously played for Girona. Soon after, in the move that settled the scoreline, Roberto drove down the right and was caught by Stepan Chaloupek. Greek referee Vassilis Fotias played a good advantage and Mikel Merino ended up converting a rebound from Antonin Kinsky after a shot by Víctor Muñoz.

The challenge left him with a cut on his shin, a mark he showed off with a smile in the mixed zone. "I took hits everywhere, but I finished the game fine," he said, playing down the incident.

Roberto Fernández's release clause rises to €30 million

The international cap has a direct impact on his contract: his release clause increases from €25 million to €30 million. That is not the only figure moving in the deal. Espanyol has already paid €7.75 million to Sporting Braga for 62.5% of the striker's rights, and will secure 75% if the team stays in La Liga, which would mean paying an additional €1.55 million to the Portuguese club.

Six goals that earned him the Spain call-up

The national team call came after Roberto had already scored six goals in the opening stretch of the season. His performances as Espanyol's attacking reference, combining work rate, generosity and finishing touch, convinced the coach to hand him an opportunity in a highly competitive squad.