Spain coach also addresses media criticism, praises Cubarsí and Huijsen, and reflects on La Roja's record-breaking 44-game unbeaten streak.
Luis de la Fuente confirms that both Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal will rejoin the Spain squad after their victory over Czechia, extending La Roja’s unbeaten run to 44 matches.
“We have some very good news. Both players will join the squad, both Lamine and Oyarzabal,” explained De la Fuente after the match.
Oyarzabal had been absent because he recently became a father, while Yamal is also eager to return to the group.
“Mikel hasn’t been with us because he has become a father. He is coming here and will appreciate it, because he is going to sleep very well. Lamine is really looking forward to being with the team.”
Spain had to work hard for their victory against a particularly energetic Czech side, with De la Fuente admitting his team struggled to find their rhythm despite creating several opportunities.
“It was a very competitive match against a team with a lot of energy. We struggled and lacked composure, but we created plenty of chances throughout the game,” he said.
The Spain coach was also asked about Álex Baena’s performance, particularly beyond the penalty, but preferred to focus on the collective effort.
“He is doing very well, he had a great game and is improving a lot. However, I would rather highlight the work of the entire team.”
De la Fuente was then questioned about his recent frustration with the media, making it clear that his main concern was the lack of respect and what he considered fabricated reports surrounding the national team.
“I don't know if anyone wants this national team to do badly, but all I ask for is respect. I don't read or listen to you, simply to protect myself. However, certain things do reach me.
“It upset me that people weren't telling the truth, that they weren't reporting the facts and were inventing situations just to generate news. Everyone should reflect on their own actions when they get home.”
Spain kept a clean sheet, with Pau Cubarsí and Dean Huijsen impressing together in central defence, prompting suggestions that the pair could represent the future of the national team.
“Our future is Sunday,” replied De la Fuente. “Huijsen and Cubarsí are two great footballers, but I cannot forget about the rest. We have great players to put together two national teams. We have to congratulate them.”
Fermín López also delivered an impressive performance, although he is still waiting for his first goal with Spain.
“Fermín is a fantastic footballer who gives us so much. I only found out today that he hasn't scored for us yet. I focus on everything he creates, and his goalscoring run will come soon.
“Scoring goals is not essential for him to be an important player for us.”
Martin Zubimendi was another player discussed after covering considerable ground during the match, particularly in defensive transitions, but De la Fuente believes the midfielder could comfortably complete another 90 minutes if required.
“He was tired, he ran an enormous amount, especially during those transitions. He finished the match well. If he has to play 90 minutes, he will manage it without any problem. We will assess him over the next few days. I want to congratulate him on his work.”
Spain have now gone 44 matches without defeat, surpassing Brazil's previous unbeaten record, and De la Fuente insisted the achievement deserves proper recognition.
“Intelligent people recognise the value of what is being achieved. We have surpassed Brazil's record. Anyone who fails to appreciate this would be a fool.
“We have to recognise everything we are achieving. After 44 matches without defeat, defeat is inevitably getting closer. We are aware of how difficult it is to maintain this run.”
Finally, De la Fuente was asked about the refereeing, suggesting that Spain should have seen an opposition player sent off and been awarded another penalty for a challenge on Fabián Ruiz.
“I think it was a red card, and there was a penalty on Fabián that was clearer than the one the referee actually awarded. However, I don't think the refereeing was decisive in the match.”