The national male football coach, Luis de la Fuente, avoided discussing the absences in his squad for the match against the Netherlands and focused on the 27 «super-called» players, emphasizing the difficulty of breaking into a team of European and Nations League champions. He highlighted the depth of talent in Spanish football and urged those not selected to continue working hard for their chance.
De la Fuente praised Pedri González for his versatility and maturity on the field, noting that there is still more to come from the young player. He also mentioned the progress of Lamine Yamal, a talented 17-year-old winger from Barcelona, whose development is being closely monitored.
Regarding media attention on Yamal, the coach cautioned against premature criticism and emphasized the importance of supporting young players as they grow and develop. He also acknowledged the significant contributions of Álvaro Morata and Rodri Hernández to the team.
Looking ahead to the match against the Netherlands, De la Fuente expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to perform at a high level, aiming to secure a spot in the ‘Final Four’. He highlighted the competitive nature of the upcoming fixture and the need for the team to maintain their Eurocopa-winning form.
In a separate note, the coach bid farewell to Pablo Amo, a former member of his coaching staff who has taken on a new role in Saudi Arabia. He also shared his positive experiences in Valencia, where the team will play their quarterfinal match, praising the city’s vibrant football culture and suggesting it as a potential host city for the 2030 World Cup.
Finally, De la Fuente reflected on his visit to areas affected by a natural disaster in October, expressing empathy and hope for the affected communities. He emphasized the resilience of the Spanish people and their enduring connection to the sport, underscoring the importance of recovery and support in challenging times.
FUENTE
