Louis de la Fuente, the Spanish coach, spoke to the media after announcing the squad for the Nations League Final Four, scheduled to take place in the Netherlands from June 14 to 18. The semi finals will pit the Netherlands against Croatia on the 14th, and Italy against Spain on the 15th. The consolation final will be at 18:00 and the grand final at 20:45 on the same day.
For this appointment, De la Fuente unveiled the players who would participate. Some were new faces not included in the initial list due to technical decisions, injuries, or administrative issues. The newcomers include Asensio, Le Normand, Canales, Rodrigo, Navas, and Jordi Alba. The La Rioja coach faces two decisive wins to begin his record with clear credibility, a task that follows a disappointing defeat to Scotland and certain reports that positioned him at the top of the lineup amid a tense atmosphere and ongoing speculation.
News from Asensio, Le Normand, Canales, Rodrigo, Navas and Jordi Alba, De la Fuente’s list
Your charge is on the wire
De la Fuente opened by sending heartfelt greetings to Sergio Rico and his family, wishing him a quick recovery. He congratulated Sevilla on winning the Europa League and noted that having five teams in the Champions League is a significant achievement. The coach faced questions about his status in the squad, responding with calm assurance. He emphasized being evaluated and stressed that he remains confident, thoughtful, and responsible. He spoke with resolve, acknowledging the anticipation before the two crucial games and the scrutiny that comes with such responsibilities. He reminded everyone of his roots and the consequences of winning or losing this challenge.
The President addressed rumors directly, stating that Rubiales was open and that doubts about him were unfounded. He expressed unwavering support from the federation, the president, and the players. He asserted that a championship can be won in two games, noting that there are 23 players available and that 20 of them will be on the field. He mentioned that when challenges arise, he sticks to a consistent line and hinted that Rodri could play a central role, though no specific conversations have taken place.
Defeat in Scotland
De la Fuente also reflected on the defeat to Scotland and the lessons drawn from it. He highlighted that experiences help teams improve and that the context was very special. He stressed that the pool of players is far larger than 26 and that every situation and context will be considered in the selection process.
Regarding veteran players like Alba and Navas, he insisted that age is not the sole criterion. It is about what they can add, and he believes both Jordi Alba and Jesús Navas are in good form and can offer substantial help.
Returning to the national team, De Canales spoke about Sergio as an outstanding player whose career has seen many ups and downs. He conveyed the impression that Sergio has improved significantly compared to weeks when injuries hampered his performance. His experience could bring more than football, enriching the squad with valuable leadership.
Louis de la Fuente, the Spanish coach, spoke to the media again after announcing the roster for the Nations League Final Four, which will be held in the Netherlands from June 14-18. The semi finals pair the Netherlands with Croatia on the 14th, and Italy with Spain on the 15th. The consolation final is at 18:00, followed by the grand finale at 20:45 on the same day.
For this appointment, De la Fuente listed the players who would appear. Several were described as new faces who did not participate in the initial call due to tactical decisions, injuries, or administrative issues. The newcomers include Asensio, Le Normand, Canales, Rodrigo, Navas, and Jordi Alba. The La Rioja coach faces two decisive wins to begin his tenure with full credibility, especially after the challenging atmosphere following the Scotland defeat and the surrounding reports that placed him at the top of the list. This context underscores the high stakes of the upcoming matches.
News from Asensio, Le Normand, Canales, Rodrigo, Navas and Jordi Alba, De la Fuente’s list
De la Fuente opened by greeting Sergio Rico and his family, wishing him a rapid recovery. He congratulated Sevilla on winning the Europa League and highlighted the importance of having five teams in the Champions League. He addressed questions about his own role with calm, stating he remains measured, focused, and confident, supported by a research-backed team. He felt the excitement for the looming two-game hurdle and noted that the critics exist, but he knows where he comes from and the consequences of victory or defeat.
The President clarified: Rubiales was open, and doubts about him were unfounded. The President, the federation, and the players offer unconditional support. A championship can be won in two games. The squad comprises 23 players, with 20 likely to feature in the matches. When facing pressure, he sticks to his principles, and he suggested Rodri could play a central role, although no direct discussion has occurred yet.
Defeat in Scotland
The La Rioja native spoke about the setback in Scotland and the insights gained. He stressed that experiences help teams grow and that the context was unique. He reiterated that the talent pool exceeds 26 players and that every scenario will be weighed carefully.
For the calls of Alba and Navas, he stated that age is not the deciding factor. He focuses on what each player can contribute, and he believes Jordi Alba and Jesús Navas remain in good shape and ready to be of great assistance.
Speaking about the national team again, it was noted that Sergio is an exceptional footballer whose career features many highs and lows. The impression given was that he has shown marked improvement compared with weeks when injuries were a significant burden. His current form could bring other strengths beyond football, including experience and leadership.