Luis de la Fuente: “Our Only Focus Is on Winning”
With just over 24 hours remaining before Spain concludes the group stage against Uruguay, head coach Luis de la Fuente spoke to a packed press room filled with national and international journalists. Guadalajara Stadium will host a match in which Spain will seek to secure qualification for the Round of 32 as Group H winners.
Before taking questions, De la Fuente expressed, on behalf of the entire Spanish delegation, his condolences following the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela:
“We would like to send our deepest condolences and heartfelt support to all those affected by the tragedy that has struck Venezuela.”
On his approach to the match
"Our performance in the last game does not suggest the need for major changes. I am extremely pleased with the attitude, commitment and professionalism shown by every player. That said, there are others who have been working exceptionally well, and I have complete confidence that whoever is selected will perform to the highest standard."
On continuing to improve
"We need to reproduce our very best level because every opponent becomes stronger as the tournament progresses and will demand even more from us. We must continue improving if we want to keep advancing and, hopefully, reach the final on 19 July."
On Uruguay
"They have many players of world-class quality. Most of them compete in Europe or in other top leagues such as those in Mexico, Brazil and Argentina. We are facing a team that needs to win, which means they will demand the very best from us."
On players who have featured less
"They set the standard for everyone else. They make their teammates better and push them to improve every single day to earn and retain their place in the team. They are extremely important to us."
On the support from Mexican fans
"We have felt tremendous warmth from the supporters, both in Puebla and here in Guadalajara. We are sincerely grateful to the Mexican people for the affection they have shown the Spanish national team."
On Marcelo Bielsa
"I have always been, and continue to be, a great admirer of Marcelo Bielsa. When he was managing Athletic Club, I spent five or six months attending virtually all of his training sessions. We have met on several occasions, and I am delighted that tomorrow will be the first time we face each other as coaches. It will be both an honour and a privilege."
On the World Cup so far
"We have watched almost every match, and what stands out most is the remarkable level of competitiveness. It shows that there are no easy favourites and that every victory has to be earned."
On the team's motivation
"Every player is highly motivated. I see a squad eager to compete, to continue demonstrating our footballing identity and to keep refining our style of play."
On Mikel Oyarzabal
"He is an exceptionally intelligent person, and that intelligence is evident on the pitch. In my opinion, he is one of the finest forwards in world football because he adapts seamlessly to every attacking position. Despite all of his quality, he remains humble, composed and grounded. Every day, I admire him even more."
On the importance of finishing first
"Our only focus is on winning. Nothing else. To reach a World Cup final, you have to face the best teams and overcome every challenge along the way. Our only objective is to win and to keep improving."
