2026 World Cup: De La Fuente Lashes Out Amid Questions About Messi and the Yamal Case
“A spectacular match, two fantastic teams with many similarities, and both will try to steer the game in the direction they prefer.” On the eve of the World Cup final against Argentina, Spain’s head coach Luis De La Fuente describes the match that will decide the world title in these terms, emphasizing the significance of a clash between two national teams that, in his view, share the same philosophy and principles of play.
“Reaching the final is a luxury. For me, what matters is being able to win. I’d sign up every year just to make it to the final and lose. What matters is having the opportunity to fight for the win, and we’ll make the most of this moment—using our strengths and qualities—against an opponent that has had a spectacular run,” said the Spanish coach. To contain Lionel Messi, De La Fuente ruled out man-to-man marking: “There won’t be man-to-man marking, but we have to be careful and keep a very close eye on him.” He then paid tribute to the Argentine star: “Messi is a role model for young athletes, because of his attitude and conduct, in this spectacular World Cup he’s playing at his age.” The coach also reassured everyone about the condition of Lamine Yamal, who was absent from Thursday’s training session: “He’s fine; he’s in top physical shape.”
De La Fuente then spoke highly of Argentine head coach Lionel Scaloni, his former student and friend: “We have a lot in common, especially because we share the same concepts, values, and principles that guide both teams.” A final that, according to the Spanish coach, will be decided by the finer details: “In this delicate balance, we have to try to win based on the small details” and “we know the match will offer many opportunities.” Among the sources of guidance he has turned to in recent days is the coach who led Spain to its 2010 World Cup triumph: “He’s a football sage; he’s been through this situation and knows the critical moments. No one is better qualified than him to give you advice; it’s reassuring to have points of reference.”
However, the press conference was also marked by a moment of tension. De La Fuente appeared annoyed by the atmosphere of the event, which he perceived as being excessively biased toward Messi and Argentina. He had already expressed his disappointment on stage at what he called a lack of respect, and at the end of the meeting with journalists, he left the room visibly upset.
