Barcelona wonderkid receives massive vote of confidence from De la Fuente ahead of Portugal vs Spain: ‘He loves these kinds of matches’ | OneFootball

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has once again explained the importance of Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal as La Roja prepare for a highly anticipated FIFA World Cup Round of 16 encounter against Portugal.

While much of the build-up has centred around a potential showdown between the Barcelona sensation and Cristiano Ronaldo, De la Fuente was keen to shift the focus towards the collective strength of both teams rather than individual battles.

Ahead of one of the standout fixtures of the knockout stages, the Spain boss made it clear that his side trusts its own quality and believes it possesses enough attacking weapons to trouble Portugal.

De la Fuente backs Lamine Yamal

During his press conference, Luis de la Fuente on Lamine Yamal became one of the main talking points as journalists questioned the manager about the teenager’s growing influence for both club and country.

Speaking about the challenge awaiting Spain, the coach began by highlighting Portugal’s overall quality while also expressing confidence in his own players.

“Portugal have a tremendous team. We need to keep an eye on everyone. We have to make sure they pay more attention to our right flank.”

De la Fuente also reiterated his faith in the squad by adding, “We have total and absolute confidence in all our players.”

Praising Yamal’s mentality before Portugal test

Lamine Yamal will be key for Spain vs Portugal. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Questions surrounding the Lamine Yamal World Cup performance continued throughout the press conference, particularly regarding the youngster’s defensive responsibilities.

However, De la Fuente dismissed any doubts over the Barcelona winger’s willingness to contribute in every phase of the game.

“We don’t need to ask him to work harder; he’s always up for it. And he knows that’s part of his development. I’m absolutely delighted. 

“What he needs to do is make the defender work harder so that they have to pay more attention to him.”

The Spain coach also revealed that these high-pressure occasions are exactly what motivate the teenager.

Discussing the player’s mindset ahead of Spain vs Portugal, he stated, “Lamine loves these kinds of matches; he loves taking the initiative and shouldering the responsibility. 

All eyes will be on Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Getty Images)

“We need to keep his anxiety in check. Zero anxiety and 100 per cent motivation. He’s at a higher level of motivation and we’re celebrating that. 

“It gives the coaches a great deal of peace of mind. The match has all the ingredients to be a great game for him.”

Nuno Mendes vs Lamine Yamal

Attention then turned towards the expected battle between Lamine Yamal against Nuno Mendes, widely regarded as one of the finest full-backs in world football.

De la Fuente remained confident about his player’s chances, stating, “He’s given many players a hard time because he’s so good. 

“But Lamine has also given many defenders a rough time. 

“He just needs to be confident, not feel anxious, and always enjoy playing with the team in mind, as he always does. Let’s hope Lamine has an afternoon of glory,” he said.

Source: Mundo Deportivo