European ambitions and a renewed Spain coaching role
In a interview with a major Spanish newspaper, the director of the national team confirmed the continuity of Luis de la Fuente, following Spain’s triumph in the Nations League. The governance figure stated plainly that the responsibility for the contract lies with him, and that de la Fuente’s deal now runs through the 2026 World Cup. The sentiment around the decision was positive, highlighting the coach’s collaborative style and the tangible achievements he delivered, including restoring a winning mindset to the squad.
European Cup and World Cup
De la Fuente, who granted his first extensive in-person conversation to a prominent Madrid-based publication after the events surrounding a leadership controversy earlier in the year, told the outlet that the World Cup remains a distant but real possibility for any coach who also serves as selector. He underscored that national-team leadership and World Cup participation should go hand in hand, a view that aligns with his responsibilities and the squad’s high expectations. This stance reflects a broader aim of integrating the team’s competitive calendar with the ambitions of the federation.
Interview with Luis de la Fuente: “I knew I had the support of the players from day one”
The Haro-born manager steered Spain back to title contention by securing the Nations League and by guiding the team toward qualification for the European Championship, where Spain joined the ranks of the pre-tournament favorites alongside heavyweights. De la Fuente consistently earned the trust of players through direct dialogue and a clear sense of shared purpose. He recalled how his long-standing relationships with a large portion of the squad — many players having progressed through the junior ranks together — helped cement a strong, familiar dynamic. He stressed that unity and mutual respect formed the backbone of the team’s performance, and that this solidarity carried into every training session and match. The coach emphasized that his early conversations with the players confirmed their belief in his vision and in the plan for the future.
The contract renewal was anticipated within the federation and among the group, with expectations that a formal public announcement would soon follow. While discussions were ongoing, the squad continued preparations with the understanding that a decision would reflect the collective effort and the progress already achieved. The outlook also includes renewed commitment from the players, who are set to wear the national jersey again in the upcoming training camp and in the lead-up to the European Championship in Germany the following summer. The arrangement aligns the federation’s strategic objectives with the team’s immediate schedule, ensuring continuity as Spain aims to maintain its high level of performance on the continental stage. These developments are viewed by observers as a stable foundation for continued growth and success under de la Fuente’s guidance, rooted in demonstrated leadership and a shared belief among players and staff alike. (Source attribution: AS)