Former teammates and associates praise De la Fuente as architect of Spain's successful World Cup campaign

Luis de la Fuente's exceptional leadership, man-management skills, and extensive experience within Spain's youth football system are being hailed as crucial factors in La Roja's remarkable run to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.

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With a 2-0 win over France, Spain has secured a spot in the final, moving just one victory away from claiming their second world championship title.

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Since assuming the role of national team coach in December 2022, De la Fuente has led Spain to numerous triumphs, including the 2023 UEFA Nations League title and the UEFA Euro 2024 crown, as well as guiding the team to the 2025 Nations League final.

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According to a report released on Thursday, former teammates, colleagues, and prominent figures in Spanish football attribute De la Fuente's success to his outstanding character and tactical prowess.

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Manolo Jimenez, a former Sevilla teammate and coach, described De la Fuente as "a good person and a great colleague," recalling his dedication to developing young players and his own personal growth.

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Jimenez praised De la Fuente's unwavering work ethic and perseverance, stating that his achievements are well-deserved and it is wonderful to see him thrive at the pinnacle of Spanish football.

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Former Spanish Football Association Vice-President Tito Blanco expressed his admiration for De la Fuente, saying that he was impressed by the coach from their initial meeting and that the decision to promote him to the senior national team was justified.

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Blanco asserted that De la Fuente is an extraordinary individual with great character, and at the time of his promotion, there was no better candidate for the position.

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Spain Under-21 coach Santi Denia, who worked alongside De la Fuente for 14 years, highlighted the coach's in-depth knowledge of players graduating from Spain's youth ranks as a key factor in building the current squad.

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Denia praised De la Fuente's exceptional team management skills, noting that he understands the players' motivations, knows how to guide them, and has a keen sense of who should start each match.

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Denia also emphasized that De la Fuente's leadership extends beyond the players, masterfully managing a team of 50 to 70 people, which is a testament to his exceptional people skills.

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Former Spain captain Fernando Hierro commended De la Fuente's calm approach and understanding of the national-team environment, saying that the coach has fostered a sense of unity in the dressing room.

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Hierro described the team as a "close-knit family" that genuinely enjoys each other's company, creating an exceptional atmosphere that is crucial in a World Cup setting.

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Spain will now aim to add the FIFA World Cup trophy to the list of honours De la Fuente has accumulated since taking charge of the national team nearly four years ago.