Pedri stayed out of the election call
drawing
It isn’t a revolution in his approach. Although there were 15 changes from the World Cup roster, Gerard Moreno makes way for Borja Iglesias and Pedri is replaced by Yeremy Pino. The Riojan coach brings a varied script that many will welcome for its depth and direction.
The differences are clear in seven main areas where de la Fuente diverges from Luis Enrique. This first week in Las Rozas and the upcoming match against Norway in Malaga will help to crystallize these shifts.
1-Motivation factor
Luis Enrique spoke with notable frankness. After giving tactical instructions, his energy carried through every room and his messages hit with intensity. He led with a strong personality that shaped the team culture.
De la Fuente favors concise, purposeful statements. He speaks with warmth and often draws on personal conviction to connect with players. He aims to touch the heart as well as the mind, balancing emotion with strategy on the training ground.
2-Training method
Luis Enrique introduced innovative systems forged in experimentation. Sessions featured on-site radios and audio cues to reinforce slogans, with a large screen at Las Rozas to review actions live. Players wore headsets to stay aligned with the daily plan.
De la Fuente adopts a more traditional framework while embracing modern analysis and medical oversight. His approach is disciplined yet infused with motivational energy, keeping training engaging without losing focus on technique and tactics.
He also emphasizes clear verbal cues and connects with players through well-timed slogans that aim to sharpen mental readiness.
De la Fuente is more traditional in method. The federation maintains rigorous analysis and medical checks, yet the sessions retain a motivational spark that fans enjoy. His approach invites players to engage with the messages actively during practice.
3-Tactics
Luis Enrique pursued a steadfast 4-3-3 system with limited variation. The plan was consistent, offering specific roles that players could understand and execute, though at times it lacked options against different opponents.
De la Fuente leans toward a 4-2-3-1 formation more often. The idea matters more than the diagram, and the goal is to control the match with ball possession. The central midfielder is pivotal, paired with a second midfielder who offers freedom and creativity. The forward line features versatile attackers, including a false nine capable of linking play with a true striker when needed. Joselu and Borja Iglesias are examples within this approach.
4-Discipline
The discipline on and off the pitch defined the Luis Enrique era. A harsh benching or squad changes would follow poor performances, underscoring accountability for players’ actions.
De la Fuente maintains clear boundaries but with a slightly more measured tone. His approach allows room for feedback while upholding standards, ensuring that discipline remains consistent across the camp without dampening morale.
De la Fuente displays a strong personality and is unafraid to discipline when necessary. While differences with individual players have arisen, he has also supported their growth by bringing them to major stages, such as the Olympic Games, when appropriate.
5-Technical structure
Luis Enrique built a tightly knit technical team, with a psychologist and a trusted fitness staff accompanying him through key periods. The coaching staff also featured an analyst who helped translate numbers into practical actions on the field. The team structure evolved but stayed focused on delivering results in important matches.
De la Fuente works with a broader federation network, sharing ideas with colleagues and listening to specialists across departments. He values collaboration and the ongoing exchange of insights, especially with the goalkeeper coach whose expertise is crucial for performance.
De la Fuente shows openness to federation staff and roles that complement the core squad. He accepts input from different levels and seeks a cohesive plan that can adapt to various phases of development while maintaining a competitive edge.
6- Dealing with the media
Luis Enrique often faced the media with a defensive stance. His intensity in public appearances sometimes created tension, though he engaged with the press to defend his tactical choices. His team employed a psychologist to prepare him for front-facing interviews, shaping a more measured public persona over time.
De la Fuente aims for a natural and approachable style. He welcomes contact with reporters and participates in press briefings with a straightforward, respectful tone. He seeks harmony with the media environment and is prepared to defend federation interests when necessary, while maintaining openness in communication.
7-Corporate
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Luis Enrique committed to long hours in the Las Rozas office and through virtual meetings. He rarely attended promotional events or most corporate engagements, choosing to stay connected with football as his primary focus. He did not frequently attend stadium visits, except on rare occasions such as national cup finals or federation-organized tournaments.
De la Fuente has embraced a stronger federation identity. He frequently visits stadiums to watch matches live and communicates with a more institutional tone. He has shown willingness to stand up for colleagues when needed and has publicly supported federation figures in challenging times, aiming to project a united front.