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SportsSpain GK Unai Simón: 20M followers would give me a 'massive headache'
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In an interview with Spanish radio station Cadena SER, Spain national team goalkeeper Unai Simón reacted to the social media phenomenon of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, who gained approximately 20 million followers after his standout performance in a goalless draw against Spain at the 2026 World Cup. Simón stated that such sudden fame would be a 'real headache' for him, emphasizing that he greatly values his privacy and anonymity during vacations outside Spain. He contrasted his own desire for a quiet life with the global recognition enjoyed by younger teammates like Pedri, Lamine, Gavi, and Nico. The article highlights the contrast between Vozinha's viral fame and Simón's preference for a low-profile lifestyle.
Source report
The 2026 World Cup has already produced one of its most remarkable stories: the sudden rise of Cape Verde's veteran goalkeeper, Vozinha.
The former Chaves shot-stopper—who left the Portuguese club after his contract expired at the end of last season—gained approximately 20 million new followers on social media following his standout performance in a goalless draw against Spain.
Unai Simón Weighs In
Unai Simón, Spain's starting goalkeeper in that match and Vozinha's opponent on the pitch, addressed the phenomenon in an interview with Cadena SER this Thursday. He admitted he would not welcome such a surge in fame, emphasizing the value he places on anonymity.
"Am I interested in social media? You'd be messing me up if you gave me 20 million followers," Simón said. "I was talking about it with them [my national team teammates]. I live very peacefully going on vacation to Greece or Italy, without anyone knowing me. If I had so many followers out there... It terrifies me. Leave it be."
Simón elaborated on the contrast between his own experience and that of younger teammates.
"I go on vacation outside of Spain and no one bothers me. Pedri, Lamine, Gavi, or Nico—I don't know if they can have that peace outside of Spain. I really value that. Social media works in favor of that, of being known worldwide. I greatly value peace and privacy. For me, having 20 million followers overnight would be a real headache," he assured.
Source
RecordWestern
Part of this Story
Cape Verde Goalkeeper Vozinha Goes Viral After World Cup Heroics vs Spain