Following the retirement of Sergio Busquets, Rodri rose to prominence as the focal point of Spain’s new project. The Manchester City midfielder now anchors Luis de la Fuente’s squad, competing with rising talents like Zubimendi for a pivotal role. He captured victories against Norway and played the full 90 minutes, signaling his central position for the team’s evolution.
Rodri was the player chosen to stand alongside the coach at the pre-match press conference ahead of Scotland versus Spain in Glasgow. When asked if he could naturally fill Busquets’ shoes, he replied that he is the best version of himself and that he leads the national team by delivering his best football. Cited remarks emphasize the need to maximize personal form to drive the squad forward. Cited remarks come from the official briefing with the coach.
On Scotland, Rodri described a quality opponent with multiple options, a team that competes for second balls and can hurt with longer balls to the keeper. Spain must execute a very complete game to secure a win. He highlighted Scotland as a physically imposing side that defends deeply in a low block, sometimes lining up with five behind the ball. Scotland’s strength on set pieces is well known, though Spain felt confident in handling them, a point confirmed after their performances against Norway. The plan is to maintain Spain’s style and exploit any weaknesses the opponent presents. Cited analysis from the briefing underscores the tactical balance necessary for success.
Headquarters in Qatar
Regarding Luis Enrique’s stance on defending in Qatar, Rodri explained that the coach has been clear about his preferred role as pivot, the position he held at his club. He recalled Qatar as an unforgettable experience and noted his own versatility, which allowed him to adapt to various positions as required by the team. Cited reflections from the press session emphasize the value of adaptability in a fast-changing competition landscape.
Rodri added that there are additional options within the squad. He acknowledged that while the team previously lacked certain profiles, there are now specialized forwards who give the team more front-foot options. Being able to center the play and push vertically has become a strategic asset, and the coach will adjust involvement to suit forthcoming tasks. The idea is that every opponent shapes the approach, and having players with different traits provides a broader toolkit. Cited insights illustrate the evolving balance between attack and structure.
On the competition with Zubimendi, Rodri emphasized his ongoing role as a mentor. He has spent a considerable amount of time with the national team and aims to help younger players grow. Zubimendi is performing at a high level at his club, which the coach will evaluate to determine the best fit for the squad. The message highlights how leadership and development go hand in hand as the team approaches important fixtures. Cited commentary reinforces the importance of experience guiding a talented emerging talent.
As for the new teaching approach, Rodri stated that he has known Luis for a long time. He described a style that prioritizes clear expectations and a lack of pivot-oriented scaffolding. The role is about solving problems, losing a few balls, maintaining defensive reliability, and filtering plays effectively. It is about ranking peers and pushing the team to improve as matches draw closer and the shot quality improves. These remarks frame a practical, no-nonsense philosophy that drives collective growth. Cited observations from the session reveal how established players contribute to a cohesive, informed group culture.