“Y ou’ve filtered these, right?” Luis de la Fuente chuckles while glancing at the laptop displaying questions from the audience. He settles into his chair on the third floor of the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, where Spain has just wrapped up a training session ahead of their crucial last-16 encounter with Portugal. Outside, some players continue to practice in the sunshine, reminiscent of the iconic moment in 1994 when Bebeto celebrated a goal. It’s the morning after Cape Verde’s notable performance against Argentina, a reminder of the World Cup’s power to create lasting memories.
“Because of what it means for Spain, it has to be [Andrés] Iniesta’s goal,” De la Fuente reflects. “It’s not very original but that’s the image of the World Cup for us. I would have been at home watching it. I have always been very into the national team. Whenever the Selección played, it was an event at my parents’ house. My parents would watch, my brothers and sisters, people would come round to watch. That’s in Haro, La Rioja. And then as a professional, wherever the game found me, I would watch it. I would enjoy every World Cup game, but especially the Spain ones. There are other images of the World Cup, but that’s the most powerful.”
With Cape Verde’s impressive showing, should Spain’s initial match be reassessed? De la Fuente states, ‘Be yourself, enjoy football, with the responsibility that comes with it, the responsibility that you take on, but be yourself.’
When asked about Lamine Yamal’s acknowledgment of Nuno Mendes as his toughest opponent, De la Fuente advises, “Lamine has faced Mendes multiple times with Barcelona and the national team. In his developmental phase, he understands that facing top opponents is crucial for growth. Those games define you and guide your path. Lamine is a fierce competitor who aims to rectify his past experiences against Mendes. However, he’s evolved significantly since then. Today, he is a more mature player who reads games better. My advice to him? ‘Be yourself, enjoy football, but remain aware of the responsibilities it entails.’”
In response to a query about Borja Iglesias’ significance in the squad, De la Fuente explains, “Borja is a vital player, always preparing and working hard to ensure he’s ready when called upon. Recently, I was disappointed that during the match against Austria, I intended to substitute him along with Martín Zubimendi, but the dynamics of the game led to a different decision. However, everyone in this squad is prepared to step up when needed. While I wish every player could get their chance, the World Cup is a unique scenario. Borja’s role is to elevate the performance of those around him, as his skills set a high standard.”
Addressing the phenomenon of fans from diverse backgrounds embracing players like Cucurellas, Yamals, Oyarzabals, and Porros, De la Fuente notes, “This is a reflection of globalization. New winds are blowing, bringing together different races, beliefs, and ideologies. Football mirrors society, playing a significant role in integration. While there are negative aspects to the sport, I prefer to focus on its positive impact, which promotes unity and embodies essential values.”
When asked about his favorite Spanish word, he responds, “The word I cherish most is ‘respect’. With respect as a foundation, anything can be built. Coexistence relies on respect. I came across this concept once, and it rings true. Respect is the cornerstone of my life and frequently comes up in my discussions with players. Even when I don’t explicitly mention it, it is evident in our decisions, behaviors, and attitudes.”
On the challenges of being a seleccionador, De la Fuente admits, “Selecting players is the most crucial and challenging aspect of our role. While we coaches have technical skills and tactical knowledge, the true test lies in choosing players who fit our vision. Ultimately, leaving out someone who could contribute is the hardest part of naming a squad.”
When questioned about whether the current midfield can rival the one from the 2010 World Cup final, De la Fuente asserts, “They are both exceptional midfields. I genuinely believe, and I say this with the utmost respect, that we possess the best midfield in the world. We have two top players for every position, including Rodrigo, Zubimendi, Fabián, Pedri, Olmo, Merino, Baena, Gavi, and Fermín, who is absent due to injury. While the 2010 midfield was remarkable, I would argue that we are nearly at that level now.”
Commenting on Pedri’s talent, a fan notes his unique ability to maintain possession even when it appears he might lose it. De la Fuente laughs, acknowledging, “Yes, he’s a magician! His quality, talent, and technical ability are extraordinary. A teacher once told me that true technique is completing difficult tasks effortlessly. Pedri embodies that notion, performing challenging feats with apparent ease. Very few players can do what he does; he plays with remarkable fluidity and sees passes that others miss. That’s the hallmark of a genius.”
When asked about the essence of happiness, De la Fuente shares, “As we age, we realize that true happiness lies in recognizing what matters most. Happiness encompasses color, life, health, and cherishing moments with loved ones—that’s the true essence of happiness.”
On the topic of Spanish tortilla, he declares, “Without onion! My mother dislikes onion, but my father and siblings enjoy it. I inherited my mother’s preference. Tortilla is one of my favorite dishes, but it must be made without onion.”
In response to whether Oyarzabal is a natural striker or a false 9, De la Fuente states, “He is an exceptional player with the versatility to adapt to any position. I recall a time when people claimed there was no center forward; that notion was incorrect. Mikel has played various roles, including media punta and on both wings, consistently performing well. He comprehends the nuances of the game and the decisions he must make. One day, he will likely become a coach due to his deep understanding of the game.”
Lastly, when asked if he draws inspiration from Brazil’s iconic possession play, De la Fuente replies, “I have a profound understanding of my players, and my approach to the game has certainly evolved. However, it has always been shaped by the players themselves. They have enhanced my ideas and forced me to adapt based on their strengths. While a solid foundation is essential, it is ultimately the players who bring it to life, and I must provide them with the tools to thrive.”
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