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Luis de la Fuente: “Now is the time to rally around those affected”

The national coach has delivered a message of solidarity with the victims of the storms during the press conference where he discussed his final Spain squad of the year: “Football must support and listen to those who are struggling.”
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Fri, 08/11/2024 - 16:25

 

The last squad announcement of what has been a triumphant year for the Spanish National Team has taken on a tone of solidarity following the grief over the victims of the devastating storm that recently pounded the country.

Luis de la Fuente announced his squad list with a heartfelt message of strength for those affected, and recognition of the volunteers working tirelessly to mitigate the destruction in the hardest-hit areas.

Initiatives like turning the senior team’s training sessions into fundraising events were part of De la Fuente’s remarks in the press room, where the Rioja born coach began by expressing, “My condolences to the families and friends of all the victims, as well as my support and solidarity with everyone affected across Spain, especially in Valencia and Albacete.”

For the European championship-winning coach, the priority now is to “focus on solidarity and support however we can from the world of football. Now is the time to rally around those affected, to show solidarity, and to listen to those going through such hardship. More help is still needed.”

In purely football terms, the squad list for the final two matches of the year includes first-time call-ups for players Aitor Paredes, Marc Casadó, and Samu Omorodion, which the coach described as “an opportunity for players who have earned it. We need to look toward the future and see the potential many players have to develop within the National Team.”

Regarding Athletic Club defender Aitor Paredes, De la Fuente said, “Aitor Paredes is having an excellent season with Athletic, forming a great partnership with Dani Vivian. I’ve known him since the Under-18 National Team, and this was the right time to see him compete at the highest level,” a sentiment extended to FC Barcelona midfielder Marc Casadó, who “joins the senior team thanks to his professionalism, hard work, and talent. He has responded very well to the very highest demands. Marc has a lot to contribute, and both he and Samu are exceptional and ready for more.”


Finally, on Porto FC forward Samu Omorodion, the coach emphasized, “He’s a young player with tremendous potential at only 20 years old. We’re giving him the opportunity, and now it’s up to him to show his full potential. We need players with this profile.”

 

Returning to the theme of solidarity with the storm victims, De la Fuente concluded his remarks with a resounding “Come on, Valencia!” before welcoming the national squad to the Ciudad del Fútbol this coming Tuesday.

 

 

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