"Players Don't Prefer their Clubs over their Countries": De la Fuente Defends National Duty

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·14 ottobre 2025

"Players Don't Prefer their Clubs over their Countries": De la Fuente Defends National Duty

Spain coach hits back at criticism over player injuries ahead of Bulgaria clash

"Players Don't Prefer their Clubs over their Countries": De la Fuente Defends National Duty

OneFootball Video

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente's passionately defended players' commitment to representing their national teams insisting that playing for one’s country remains fundamental part of footballer’s development.

Speaking at press conference on the eve of Spain’s crucial World cup qualifier against Bulgaria, the 62 year old coach addressed growing criticism surrounding player injuries during international duty.

"All of my players give me complete confidence, There're no favours and no obligations .. we always select the best possible team because we are playing for something very important. This squad's hungry and determined to win every match" De la Fuente said.

Spain have taken significant strides toward the 2026 FIFA World cup winning 3 consecutive qualifiers despite dealing with several injuries. The latest absentee is Ferran Torres who was left out due to muscle fatigue.

🗣️ "Las lesiones son circunstancias del fútbol" 🎙️ Luis de la Fuente toma la palabra en la previa del partido frente a Bulgaria
– lunedì 13 ottobre 2025

Responding to suggestions that club football should take priority, De la Fuente was firm:

"Player health always comes first. I don’t understand why there’s more criticism when someone gets injured with the national team than with their club. Players don’t prefer their clubs over their countries .. real growth for any player comes through representing their nation".

The coach also reassured fans about Torres' condition clarifying that the Barcelona winger isn't injured but was rested as precaution.

"I see people on the streets excited again. The national team's become part of Spanish life and we'll give them the pride and passion they deserve"

Spain host Bulgaria in Madrid on Tuesday 14 October knowing another win would bring them step closer to sealing their place at the 2026 World cup.

🎙️ "Nuestra mentalidad es intentar ganar cada partido y cada competición en la que hemos participado". ➡️ "Queremos seguir mejorando y ser mejor equipo de lo que fuimos el sábado". 🗣️ Luis de la Fuente, seleccionador nacional. #VamosEspaña | #CopaMundialFIFA
– lunedì 13 ottobre 2025