De la Fuente praises Iraq’s intensity and says Spain now shifts focus to the U.S. phase of World Cup prep
Spain’s coach expressed optimism about Mikel Merino’s progress: “He must keep accumulating workload, but he is taking it onboard well.”
Luis de la Fuente didn’t hide his mixed feelings after Spain’s draw against Iraq, using his post‑match press conference to break down what he saw — and what comes next — as La Roja heads into the final stretch before the World Cup.
“Today was about physical work and sensations”
De la Fuente said this match was designed less for spectacle and more for conditioning.
“We wanted a game with a strong physical component, something that helped the players adapt. Today was about sensations and giving opportunities to other players. No injuries — that’s important. Now we enter a new phase with more intensity and more players contributing. Tomorrow we’re in the United States, and that puts our focus exactly where it needs to be.”
Iraq surprised him — in a good way
“They surprised me in a very positive way. We struggled in the first half to stop their progressions. Every match is difficult, but they showed rhythm, intensity, and good combination play. They’re an interesting team with a lot of energy. They pushed us and made things complicated.”
On the goalkeeper and his starting XI
“We don’t treat matches as simple friendlies. We had goals against Iraq, but also physical requirements to meet. My idea hasn’t changed. We’ll see how these days develop. We’re 11 days from our first match and have another friendly in four. We’re clear on the goalkeeper — and the other 10 starters.”
A night full of debuts
Marc Bernal, Jon Martín, Gonzalo, Turrientes, Javi Guerra, Marc Pubill, Javi Rodríguez and Leo Román made their senior debuts this evening against Iraq.
“They all earned it. The match allowed us to give debuts to players who deserved the chance. They helped us a lot. They’re players for the future, and we’ll see them with the senior team soon. Another objective accomplished.”
Marc Bernal continues to impress
“Marc keeps showing the quality he has. Very young, but with personality and good judgment in such an important role for us as the No. 6. He has a lot to improve — like all young players — but his potential gives him a huge margin for growth. He can be very important in the future.”
Merino’s minutes are a positive sign
“Mikel’s minutes were good news. He needs to keep building workload, and he’s responding well. Other players will also contribute a lot in this tournament and beyond.”
On France’s loss to Ivory Coast
“We’re all in that phase. The Netherlands also lost. Players need to adapt to this new reality. After days without competition, they must regain rhythm in an international environment that’s much tougher than club play.”
Praise for the stadium and local players
“Thank you to Riazor for the welcome and the farewell. Great work was done to keep the pitch in good condition. Javi Rodríguez is very interesting and had a great season with Celta. And Borja Iglesias — we already know him well. He’s a guarantee of performance and can give us a lot.”
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