The rewritten content is as follows:
The Spanish men’s football coach, Luis de la Fuente, has stated that he and his staff fully accept the medical report regarding the absence of central defender Iñigo Martínez from the squad for the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, where Spain will face the Netherlands in a two-legged tie in just four days.
«Three of the central defenders are comfortable playing on the left side, they perform with ease and quality. We are confident in what they bring to the team. Each one offers something unique with their own set of skills, and we are sure of their contribution,» De la Fuente said during a press conference in Rotterdam on Wednesday.
«I spoke with Iñigo when necessary, and we fully trust the medical report; it’s definitive,» the coach added, downplaying the situation compared to Marc Casadó’s absence. «We have good relationships with medical teams worldwide. We always prioritize the players’ health. Therefore, it is best for him not to join us,» he emphasized.
«The Netherlands also has a very young squad, with three players over 30 years old, while we have two. Age is not the focus; it’s about talent, competitiveness, and capacity. We are confident in the abilities of our players,» he highlighted.
«In addition to their current quality, they also promise a bright future for Spanish football. This is a reason to be proud regardless of the circumstances. I believe it’s very positive,» he stated ahead of the match against the Dutch team at De Kuip.
«We need to win both games to advance in the competition, which will be tough. We are facing a strong opponent, one of the best in Europe currently,» he warned about the ‘Oranje’. He reflected on his own development after winning EURO 2024, stating, «My core values remain the same, built upon a strong foundation that has brought me to this point.»
«Although winning the EURO was a pivotal moment in my coaching career, I have stayed true to myself and my principles. I always aim to maintain integrity in everything I do,» he affirmed.
He also addressed Lamine Yamal’s observance of Ramadan. «He follows his religious practices as guided by his club’s medical team and nutritionist. We respect and support his beliefs and behaviors. He is in good condition to compete, as demonstrated by his performances for his club,» he reiterated.
After praising the work of his son Alberto de la Fuente and Juanjo González in the national team’s staff, he discussed Pablo Amo’s departure. «We have a great relationship, and I am happy that he is happy. We always want the best for our friends. I believe our coaching staff has improved since then, and we continue to learn and grow,» he reflected.
Regarding the appointment of a new sports director at the Spanish Football Federation, he welcomed the idea of adding someone to the team. «The timing is managed by the RFEF, and I understand that someone will join us. We welcome anyone who can contribute positively to our work. It’s important to have someone dedicated to that role,» he mentioned following Albert Luque’s departure.
When asked about the starting lineup for the match in the Netherlands, De la Fuente expressed confidence in the goalkeepers. «I have no concerns about the goalkeeping position. Any of the three options provide maximum security and confidence for us,» he assured.
He also confirmed that Robin Le Normand is in good shape. «He has been playing consistently for Atletico Madrid and is a key player for us. His exceptional attitude sets a great example for his teammates,» he praised.
Additionally, he mentioned that Ferran Torres had a minor injury from a recent game against Atletico Madrid. «He is highly valued by everyone. We have supported him through tough times, and he is currently in the best form of his career,» he stated.
He also spoke highly of Pedri’s versatility and potential for improvement, as well as praising young talent like Pau Cubarsí from Barcelona.
«These young players who excel at the highest level are special, with unique qualities and talents. Pau is one of them, proving he is ready to compete at a young age. He still has room to grow but is prepared to play at the highest level,» he acknowledged.
«We aim to maximize our players’ potential. Our offensive-minded players enjoy attacking and playing with the ball. They demand a certain style of play, which we aim to maintain. It’s not just about success; it’s about meeting the players’ needs and preferences,» he concluded, emphasizing the importance of understanding and supporting players like Yamal.
