Luis de la Fuente, at 64 years old, is preparing to debut in a football World Cup leading the Spanish national team. In an interview before traveling to the United States, the coach describes himself as a "man of honor, very sure of his decisions and loyal to my convictions," asserting that his optimism is natural, not forced.
Regarding squad selections, De la Fuente admitted to calling some players to explain their absence, calling the decision "painful" but necessary to include others with "the same merits." He mentioned the case of Remiro, to whom he expressed his recognition, and Dean Huijsen, whom he considers a future player despite his "youthful disappointment."
The coach explained that his game idea, "open, dynamic, and attacking," is based on the "historical school of the Spanish national team" but with "nuances and evolution," adapting to the players' abilities. He recalled his own development, from the more direct football at Athletic Bilbao to the technical and combinational style at Sevilla, and how he has integrated these visions into his model.
De la Fuente defended his leadership model, based on "kindness" but without confusing it with "weakness or lack of character." He prefers to work with "good people, good individuals" who are professional, committed, and supportive, arguing that this approach, although different from other models, "works because the results work."
Regarding players who did not fit his model, he clarified that it's not about them being "bad people," but rather that they "did not fit the health of our model." He stressed the importance of "solidarity, generosity, and camaraderie" in the locker room, stating that he has never witnessed "fights" as a player or coach.
The coach considers "cohesion" an "essential" factor for success in the World Cup, highlighting that the "human groups" he has managed have facilitated good performance on the field. While acknowledging football's social importance, he emphasizes that issues like "health, work, or housing" are incomparably more relevant.
About his World Cup debut at 64, De la Fuente attributes it to arriving "at the right time," prepared for the responsibility and media attention. He champions "young talent" and a "culture of development," but values "experience" as a degree that provides "another perspective on things."
Regarding criticism, he admitted that "no one is insensitive" and that it used to "hurt," but he decided to stop reading the press to "remain free, independent, autonomous" and make decisions "without being contaminated by external noise." His "only motivation is sporting."
De la Fuente highlighted "respect" as the key word for coexistence, both within the team and in life. He explained that player treatment varies according to their "history, their journey," citing the example of Lamine Yamal and Jesús Navas, who have "equal rights and obligations" but require different treatment due to age and status.
Finally, the coach expressed optimism about Spain's chances in the World Cup, acknowledging that "there are eight or ten teams as strong as ours that can also win," but insisted that they go "with the hope that we can win" and "we are going to fight for it."
