The world's top midfielders beware: Spain's Luis de la Fuente is proclaiming his team's central engine room the very best in the business. "The best midfield in the world," he declared with unbridled confidence, as Spain fine-tuned their preparations for a mouth-watering last-16 showdown against Portugal.
With several dark horses making waves at this World Cup, De la Fuente pinpointed Cape Verde's spirited display against Argentina as evidence of emerging nations shaking up the status quo. He anticipated an unforgettable tournament where less-fancied teams would seize their moment in the spotlight – and Spain, far from being caught off guard, was ready to take its rightful place among the stars.
Meanwhile, De la Fuente offered words of wisdom to 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, who's been studying Portugal's Nuno Mendes with laser-like focus. "Be yourself," the manager advised Yamal, drawing on their past encounters at both club and international level. "Enjoy football, but also remember the responsibility that comes with it – and always be true to yourself." De la Fuente knows firsthand the significance of such high-pressure matches in shaping a player's development and defining their career trajectory.
Looking back on Spain's storied World Cup history, De la Fuente reminisced about Andrés Iniesta's glorious winning goal in 2010. "That moment etched itself forever into Spanish hearts," he recalled, recalling the nation's collective euphoria as a child growing up in his homeland. For Spaniards, watching their national team play is more than just a sporting event – it's an integral part of the country's culture and identity.
De la Fuente also highlighted the unsung heroes within his squad, like Borja Iglesias, who may not be getting as many minutes on the pitch but is still having a profound impact. "Borja is a very important player," De la Fuente acknowledged, praising his diligent work ethic and demanding presence that pushes the rest of the team to raise their game – even when those all-important substitutions don't come off as planned.