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Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has expressed his full satisfaction with his team’s readiness ahead of the start of the 2026 World Cup, stressing that all players are in excellent physical condition and the team is injury-free after the last friendly match against Peru.
“We are completely satisfied with what we have done,” said De La Fuente at the press conference after the match at Cuahtemoc Stadium. “The players are in excellent physical condition and there are no injuries. We will continue to analyze the various cases in the coming days.”
Oyarzabal and Borja… the difficulty of the forward position
The Spanish coach said about the game of the attackers, especially Borja Iglesias, who has not yet scored his first goal. “It is a difficult position and requires a lot of effort. But there are more important aspects than just scoring goals. It’s about understanding the team’s style of play.”
“Borja will appear at any moment, Ferran is making an exceptional performance.”
Rodrigo and Merino are ready
As for Rodrigo and Merino’s training, de la Fuente confirmed: “Rodrigo is really doing exceptionally well. For various reasons we only gave him an hour but now he is fine. Merino is gradually getting more playing time.”
He continued. “I think everyone will be ready and I want to reassure everyone. All players are in excellent physical condition. Everyone will be available for the first meeting, including Nico, Lamin and Victor, who are training intensively in Chattanooga.”
One of the best players in the world
The Spanish coach said about the possibility of starting Dani Olmo. “Dani Olmo is one of the best players in the world in this position. We have Fabiani, Pedri, Merino. Olmo is at the top of his game and we have an opportunity to play him on the wing. He will definitely get his chance.”
The gatekeeper has been adjusted
De La Fuente confidently answered the question about the selection of the starting goalkeeper. “The decision was made before this match,” without revealing the identity of the chosen goalkeeper.
No changes during training
Regarding the changes in the training program, taking into account the schedule of the games, he said. “No, we will try to work at 11 in the morning. 12 o’clock can be a regular workout, so you won’t notice a big difference.”
Confidence and caution ahead of the World Cup
De La Fuente concluded his remarks by emphasizing the team’s confidence while remaining cautious. “Just being nominated or even being the most successful team doesn’t guarantee us anything. We are a team that believes in our strengths and our style of play. We believe that this system suits us, but at the same time we are fully aware that any team can beat us.”
The Spanish national team is preparing to face Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in the first official match of the 2026 World Cup next Monday.
