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Luis de la Fuente: “We have a very solid foundation and one of the youngest teams in the world”

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Fri, 03/10/2025 - 15:05

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente addressed the media after announcing the list of 23 players called up for the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches. The fixtures will take place in Elche and Valladolid on October 11 and 14, where Spain will face Georgia and Bulgaria.

De la Fuente began his press conference by sending his best wishes to the U-20 national team, saying he hoped for “the very best of luck in tomorrow’s World Cup match against Brazil.”

The Spanish coach emphasized the growing importance of the national team, stating: “What matters most in these international windows is the Selección. We’re seeing more and more people wearing the red shirt in the streets, and we have to keep building on that. The priority now is to beat Georgia and Bulgaria and secure our place at the World Cup.”

Regarding the players nominated for the Ballon d’Or, Luis de la Fuente stated: “I would have preferred any Spaniard to win. I’m delighted that Lamine and Pedri were nominated, and I’m sure they will win a Ballon d’Or in the future. Dembélé is a deserving winner, but I will always back Spanish football.”

Watch the full press conference

The head coach was also asked about the absence of Álvaro Morata. He replied: “Morata remains and will continue to be very important for us. After analyzing our opponents, we felt there were other players who could contribute more in this instance.”

To conclude, Luis de la Fuente reflected on the national team: “We have a very solid foundation. Our most experienced players are 30 years old, and we are one of the youngest national teams in the world.”