Coach De la Fuente Embraces Spain’s World Cup Favourites Tag

Luis de la Fuente says he is relishing the pressure of being among the favourites to win the World Cup, speaking ahead of Spain’s friendly against Egypt national football team in Barcelona on Tuesday.

He also praised rising star Lamine Yamal, although he declined to confirm whether the youngster would start the match against the African side, who will also feature at the World Cup.

Ranked number one in the FIFA rankings, Spain beat Serbia 3–0 on Friday in the first of two friendlies during the March international window.

“I love it. We accept that challenge,” De la Fuente said, referring to the pressure of being labelled favourites.

“It’s the same situation for other top teams like the France national football team, the England national football team and the Brazil national football team,” he added.

Asked about Yamal, the Spain coach described him as “magical” and in one of the finest moments of his young career, but stopped short of confirming his inclusion in the starting XI.

“He’s in a very sweet moment — quick, resilient and capable of moments of brilliance,” De la Fuente said. “I understand Barcelona supporters’ concerns about him, but my responsibility is to select the strongest possible team.”

“He is a better footballer than he was two years ago, though not as good as he will be in two years’ time. His influence grows daily. He attracts attention and brings magic,” he added.

Spain will play one more friendly against Peru national football team in Puebla, Mexico, on 8 June before opening their World Cup campaign against Cape Verde national football team in Atlanta on 15 June.

De la Fuente also addressed injury concerns, with Nico Williams, Fabián Ruiz and Mikel Merino — all key figures in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph — currently sidelined.

“I’m not being pessimistic, but setbacks are inevitable. We’ve had injuries to Merino, Fabián and Nico,” he said.

“I believe Nico has returned to training. Mikel’s injury is more long-term. I think both will be available, but we must monitor their recovery closely, especially Mikel’s, which is less predictable,” he added.