Following the announcement of the 26-player squad for the upcoming World Cup, Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente shared insights about his selections during an interview on TVE’s Los desayunos de La 1. He reflected on the emotional challenges of roster decisions and Spain's prospects in the tournament.

Emotional Toll of Selection

When asked about the reactions to his squad list, de la Fuente expressed confidence, stating, “I don’t want it to sound arrogant, but nothing has affected me negatively.” He emphasized feeling the excitement of the nation and expressed pride in being part of the enthusiasm surrounding the team. However, he acknowledged the difficulty of leaving out certain players, particularly those with whom he has built strong relationships over the years. “The worst part is when you have to leave out players with whom you have a great relationship,” he admitted, highlighting the emotional weight of such decisions.

Focus on Team Merit

Addressing concerns about potential disconnection from Real Madrid fans, de la Fuente clarified that his selections are based solely on sporting merit, stating, “I don’t look at where players come from. The national team itself should motivate them, not their club.” He reiterated that his priority is the national team and that he must make choices that benefit the squad as a whole, emphasizing the importance of collective success over individual affiliations.

Assessing World Cup Prospects

On the topic of Spain's chances in the tournament, de la Fuente was cautious yet optimistic. He noted that while winning is challenging and many teams are in contention, Spain is among the ten national teams capable of lifting the trophy. “Internally we’re not saying we’re favorites, but we do feel capable of winning,” he remarked. He also provided updates on player fitness, particularly Lamine Yamal, indicating that recovery efforts are progressing well and that the team is focused on long-term performance rather than just the opening match.

As Spain prepares for the World Cup, de la Fuente's leadership and decision-making will be crucial as the team aims to build on the excitement and hope surrounding their campaign.