After an impressive start to the season and a memorable hat-trick against Bruk-Bet Termalica, Widzew Łódź midfielder Fran Álvarez has become one of the standout figures in the Ekstraklasa. The Spanish playmaker, known for his vision, technique, and leadership on the pitch, continues to prove his value as a key player in Widzew’s growing project.

I sat down with Fran to talk about his recent form, the evolution of the team, and his personal goals for the rest of the season. In this interview, he opens up about his adaptation to Polish football, the team’s ambitions, and the passion that drives him every time he steps onto the field.

A few days ago, you scored a hat-trick in the match against Bruk-Bet Termalica in Nieciecza (in the 54th, 57th, and 67th minutes). How did you experience that moment on the pitch?

It was a truly unique moment. It’s not common for a midfielder to score three goals in a single match, and I’ve worked really hard to reach that point. When everything clicks and you can help your team in such a way, it’s something unforgettable. I enjoyed every second of it — the connection with my teammates, the atmosphere, and the feeling that all the effort from training finally paid off. It’s one of those days you never forget as a player.

What do you attribute this scoring form at Widzew and in the Ekstraklasa to? Has something changed in your game, preparation, or mentality?

I think it’s a mix of several things. I’m an experienced player who understands the different moments within a match, and I believe that’s something that sets me apart now. I’ve adapted really well to the league — the pace, the physicality, the style — and that adaptation has given me a lot of confidence. I also feel that I’m calmer and more mature in decision-making, and that helps me take better advantage of the chances that come my way. In football, small details make the difference, and I try to focus on improving them every day.

What do you think should be Widzew’s objective for this season — fighting for European spots, maintaining league stability, or something else?

Personally, I’ve always believed that it’s best to stay focused on the present — on what you can control today. That’s why our approach should be to go step by step, game by game, improving as a team and correcting what needs to be corrected. If we keep that mindset, the results will come naturally. Of course, we all want to see Widzew as high as possible in the table, ideally fighting for European places, but the Ekstraklasa is a very balanced league where anything can happen. Every match is tough, and that’s what makes it so interesting.

The start of the season wasn’t easy for Widzew. What do you think caused those difficulties, and how has the team worked to improve the results?

It’s been almost like starting a new project, and projects like this always need time. We had many new signings, and building chemistry between players doesn’t happen overnight. Understanding your teammate’s movements, his timing, and his habits on the pitch takes work. That’s why our main focus has been on unity — staying together, training hard every day, and keeping a positive mentality. We knew that with consistency and belief, the results would come, and now you can see the progress in our performances.

Inside the dressing room, who takes on the leadership role? Who sets the tone and how is the team organized internally?

We have several experienced players who try to support the younger ones whenever they need help. There’s also a Team Board that manages the dressing room — they’re the main points of reference when something needs to be discussed. But honestly, leadership here is shared. Everyone feels responsible for the group’s atmosphere and performance. It’s a very united and respectful environment, and that collective mentality is what makes this team special.

As a foreign player in Poland since 2023, what has been the most difficult thing to adapt to — culturally, in Polish football, or in the league’s environment?

The Ekstraklasa is a very competitive league — every game is a battle — and that’s something I’ve really learned to appreciate. Culturally, football is lived here in a completely different way compared to Spain. In Poland, the fans are incredibly passionate; for them, football is almost like a religion. At first, adapting to the new environment, language, and style of play was a challenge, but over time I’ve come to enjoy it a lot. The passion and commitment you feel here push you to give your absolute best every weekend.

What message would you give to the fans who see you as one of the key figures in the team? How would you like to be remembered at Widzew?

My main goal is to help the club as much as I can so that we can grow together and bring Widzew back to European competitions. I’m really happy here and very grateful for the affection and support I receive from the fans — they’ve made me feel at home from day one. I’d love to be remembered as someone who gave everything for the badge, someone who helped achieve great success, and who contributed to taking Widzew back to where it truly belongs — among the top clubs in Europe.