Spain’s national team has been aiming to establish a cohesive playing style since the new coaching era began, with a clear and energetic approach from the start. From the moment the new coach addressed the squad, the emphasis has been on firm ideas and consistent performance. The discussion has repeatedly revisited vows by key players such as Sergio Ramos, and recent developments around the Rubiales matter have taken a back seat to football priorities. In the latest international window, the team showcased its intent with emphatic wins against Georgia (1-7) and Cyprus (6-0).
Relating to
Following the victory over Granada, the coach spoke to the press mainly about football. He praised the players for their attitude in demanding matches, noting that even seemingly easy games pose challenges. The head coach, a Riojan figure, expressed optimism and said all goals had been achieved so far. He also highlighted the ongoing effort to grow the team, setting aside the Rubiales issue for the moment after the win against Cyprus.
That win over noise allowed adjustments to a squad that had stumbled in prior fixtures, and the Nations League was used to refine tactical plans. In a broader view, a respected journalist highlighted the coach’s management and consistency in explaining tactical ideas clearly and effectively.
Vertical space and strategic balance
Achieving goals of this magnitude is a tough task because opponents defend well. Yet the players themselves are the main heroes, maintaining focus through long spells and sustaining momentum. The coach noted that victory was not something they planned for in advance, but the team’s collective effort made it possible, and success felt like it was still in progress.
Comparisons with the team led by a previous coach are inevitable. The current project seeks to build a highly vertical style, combining possession with a willingness to press the opposing defense. The fixtures against Georgia and Cyprus served as a strong calling card for that approach.
Lamine’s art is dazzling and Spain has another joy against Cyprus
Jordi Gil
Coach De la Fuente embraces multiple plot lines, including improvements since the first game, ongoing development of talents, and a rotating squad to maintain momentum. Attention also falls on Joselu, Ferran, Carvajal’s fine form, and Álex Baena’s first goal as part of the evolving picture.
The story of Lamine Yamal stands out as a case study in modern youth development. Generational talent requires careful training and protection, with the coach stressing the need to manage peaks and troughs as players mature on the big stage.
Football wins Rubiales case in Spain’s Bakalin against Cyprus
Denis Iglesias
Backline injuries and doubt
Famed for his impact at a major club, youth star Lamine Yamal is one of the standout talents in the squad. The team also relies on Nico Williams, whose availability has been a concern after an injury in the Cyprus match. Dani Olmo and Marco Asensio sustained injuries against Georgia, creating a need for depth in the backline and in attacking options ahead of upcoming fixtures. The national team is set to face Scotland in Valladolid on October 12, a match that could seal their group and ease tension from the painful first leg, followed by a trip to Norway on the 15th to assess the next challenges.
The latter half of the matches against Georgia, and the first half against Cyprus, showcased strong leadership from the senior squad under De la Fuente. Several players have yet to feature in this window, while others like the goalkeepers, central defenders, and full-backs were rotated to test the squad’s resilience and versatility. The potential absence of a couple of centers has raised concerns about depth, with departures impacting the pool of competing players. The selection also opens the door to consider veteran Sergio Ramos’s role in the future, given the evolving defensive lineup and past disagreements with the coach.
Rodri: “We must adapt to the demands of modern football”
The coaching staff remains cautiously optimistic, with Rodri Hernandez delivering standout performances that align with a Ballon d’Or level trajectory. He emphasized evolving tactics that prioritize verticality and quick ball movement while preserving the team’s core identity. He noted that long, intricate build-up is being refined to fit the contemporary game, where application in key zones matters more than sheer possession. Dani Olmo’s growth has provided balance in attack, adding menace from the left and creating space for teammates. His contribution underscores the impact of a mature, versatile midfield presence.
Fabián’s “freedom” in the face of ostracism with Luis Enrique
Fabian Ruiz appeared before the Cyprus match, openly addressing his lack of minutes under a former coach. He acknowledged that coach decisions shape how players are utilized, but remains focused on contributing when called upon, showing resilience and commitment to the national cause.
The national team’s Madrid duo Carvajal and Joselu celebrate as a family and score a goal
Fabian Ruiz emerged as a standout talent in the youth ranks before transitioning to senior duties. His experience in top leagues now proves useful for the senior squad, where the coaching staff values freedom in attack and defense. The relationship between coach and players centers on trust in youth development and the ability to carry that trust into the senior team, enabling a fearless approach on the field.
The idea of freedom in attack is framed as a path to reach the opponent quickly and finish sequences decisively, without fearing possession loss. Fabian argues that this new setup is about balancing audacity with control, yielding a dynamic, forward-looking style.
Risk of the same thing happening in Scotland
With the next challenges looming, the coach must craft an environment that prevents disorder while maintaining an organized defense. Spain felt vulnerable when pressed aggressively, a lesson that Merino recalled as a reminder to adjust rapidly. Some players arrive with updated habits and discipline, helping to shape a project that aspires to be among Europe’s elite. Laminated Yamal’s brilliance adds a unique spark to the mix, creating an ideal environment for a long-term plan that seeks to place Spain among the favorites for the next European Championship.
According to close circles, the coach works late into the night, refining ideas and building a method that differs from the earlier leadership. It is a rigorous process that bears fruit in the form of broader support and tangible progress on the field.