The Spanish football coach Luis Enrique Martínez guided a Barcelona side that valued ball control and a compact midfield. Gavi, a standout talent, has room to grow both on the pitch and away from it. He sees Argentina and Brazil as the teams to beat in world competition, while he remains convinced his group can challenge any opponent they meet.
“Gavi has a lot to improve on and off the pitch,” Enrique remarked at a press conference before the League of Nations match against the Czech Republic. He declined to compare Gavi with teammate Sergio Busquets, saying there is no point drawing direct parallels, especially when one is a very young player. He added that interpretations should be left open, much like a classroom exercise that invites everyone to form their own reading of the moment.
Enrique also noted that he would not overanalyze the early results. The league matchups and the standings in League A are what matter, not sensational headlines. The aim is to build confidence within the squad and keep creating viable options that can compete with any opponent. He stressed that there are no soft games in modern football and that his team should be recognized for its ability to generate chances and stay competitive at the highest level.
Despite the draws at the start, he did not downgrade Spain’s potential. He joked that grade-like evaluations are not his style, yet he openly stated his beliefs about the teams most capable of winning the World Cup. Argentina and Brazil, he said, stand far above the rest, shaping the competition with their depth and experience.
️ @LUISENRIQUE21: “I hope the public will help us. The stadium is beautiful and we need extra support from the stands against such a tough opponent.”
➡️ ” @SeFootball It has a lot to offer the fans and we are delighted to be here.”#VamosSpain | #League of Nations pic.twitter.com/C0ueLMDBii
– Spanish Football Team (@SeFutbol) 11 June 2022
Enrique reiterated the caution required against the Czech side in Prague. He highlighted their defensive discipline and density, noting how they crowded the middle and constrained Spain’s options. When possession was lost, the team needed quick transitions and more chances to score. He hoped the pace of the game would rise, the atmosphere would lift the players, and the fans would provide extra energy.
“Ansu will return to Fati level”
The coach spoke about Ansu Fati and his potential to contribute again at the highest level. He did not specify minutes for the match but explained the decision to recall Ansu to the squad. The aim was to reengage the forward, rekindle his motivation, and reintroduce him to the national team dynamics. After assessing his fitness and form, Enrique expressed optimism about Ansu’s readiness to compete at the international level. Fati’s recovery from injury had progressed, and his current form suggested he could contribute meaningfully when given the opportunity.
Enrique emphasized that Ansu’s path would be guided by form and rhythm rather than haste. He highlighted the importance of integrating a player who is capable of scoring and influencing games, while ensuring that the young forward remains in sync with the team’s overall plan and tempo.
️ @LUISENRIQUE21: “I always tell players that I won’t take risks.”
➡️ “This is my intention and I pass it on to them from day one”.#VamosSpain | #League of Nations pic.twitter.com/oimOI0JQs8
– Spanish Football Team (@SeFutbol) 11 June 2022
Questions about whether Iñigo Martínez would be available for selection did not progress. The coach stated that he would not take risks with any player and that decisions would be made in consultation with the players themselves. Martínez’s toe remained swollen after a training session, and the team would assess him in the warm-up the following day. The emphasis remained on safeguarding players while maintaining competitive readiness.
Regarding goalkeeping, Enrique clarified that all three goalkeepers are considered starters, although Unai Simón has played the majority of matches so far. The plan is for every goalkeeper to feel capable of contributing, should circumstances require it. This approach reflects the broader belief in squad depth and the ability of all players to step in when needed.
Finally, Enrique avoided predicting a lineup change for the clash with the Czech Republic. He praised the daily progress of the group and the way his players commit to training. The focus remained on managing minutes, maximizing effort, and choosing the most effective approach to face the final game of the season with the team fully prepared.