The Spain national team and the Nations League schedule
Spain’s head coach, Luis Enrique Martinez, emphasized this Wednesday the heavy burden of four matches packed into eleven days as the team navigates the third edition of the League of Nations. These official fixtures come as the squad gears up for the next international window, even as club football hits an unusual midseason break in Qatar this coming November.
The Asturian coach spoke from the Benito Villamarín stadium in Seville, where Spain prepared to face Portugal on the following Thursday. He explained that, on the competition’s opening day, the team had examined all factors surrounding the national program and that the calendar and dates are decisive for all teams involved.
Enrique noted that rest is important, but every player is pushing hard to represent the national team in this stretch. He stressed that the four matches carry significant weight, especially with a World Cup cycle looming and players arriving with fatigue after a long season. The manager also noted that coming mid-season can supply a high level of physicality, but the exact dynamics remain uncertain. He underscored the goal of winning all four matches and doubted that any group rival could claim every win given the high standard of the other teams in the group.
The coach highlighted that the list of players is always open, and there are likely to be surprises before the World Cup. He acknowledged that his selections depend on form and readiness, even as some players have earned his trust through solid performances. He included a candid line about the ongoing evaluation process, indicating that the team aims to maximize performance in the coming games and confirms that each call-up will be judged on current form and fitness. [Citation: SeFutbol communications, June 2022]
Enrique commented on the friendly rivalry with Portugal, describing the upcoming clash at the Betis stadium as a meeting between two top-level teams. He characterized the matchup as a positive competition between neighboring nations that shares common objectives, including a successful World Cup campaign. He suggested such games help raise the level of the squad and provide valuable tests ahead of major tournaments. [Citation: SeFutbol communications, June 2022]
Among the players discussed, he pointed to Ansu Fati, the Barcelona forward who has been on the mend. The coach said Fati is healthy and has been featuring for Barça in recent weeks. He indicated that minutes in the forthcoming matches will be determined by practice performance and fitness, stressing that returning from an injury is best aided by competitive play. He also lauded Sergio Busquets, Barça’s captain, as outstanding and influential, even when public opinion has sometimes scrutinized his contributions.
Enrique reiterated the team’s main objective: to win the League of Nations. He warned that no group rival had secured perfect form and stressed the importance of maintaining the highest possible standard in every match. The manager also hinted that there will be further selections as the World Cup approaches and that the players must stay prepared for a dynamic and open-list policy. [Citation: SeFutbol communications, June 2022]
When asked about leadership and the best possible version of the national team, Enrique said he wants players who can lead by example and be crucial to the team’s success in official matches. He clarified that discussions about individual names are not meant to crown anyone, but rather to ensure the squad is equipped to showcase the best football in service of Spain. The overarching aim remains clear: secure victories and advance confidence ahead of the World Cup preparations. [Citation: SeFutbol communications, June 2022]