De la Fuente hails Spain’s world champions as an example for the nation | OneFootball

Spain are world champions, Luis de la Fuente’s side dominating the 2026 tournament to add a second star to the shirt. The veteran coach became the oldest to lift the World Cup, doing so with a clear identity and firm trust in his players.

Speaking to RTVE after the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, he said he felt immense pride in a generation that had grown with the plan, showing unity, family spirit and exceptional talent.

He reflected that living what the team had lived was wonderful, calling his players an example for Spanish sport, for young people and for the country, adding that together they are stronger.

On the game, he noted that only Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez’s interventions stopped it being decided earlier. He added that, even against 10 men, Spain had to suffer, but showed they were prepared for everything.

De la Fuente took charge after the Qatar 2022 World Cup, replacing Luis Enrique. A year later Spain won the 2023 Nations League, beating Croatia in the final, then a superb European Championship campaign followed, with victory over France in the semi-finals and a triumph against England in Berlin sealed by Mikel Oyarzabal.

The only blemish on his record was the 2025 Nations League, where Spain drew with Portugal but lost the title on penalties.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo