Law and order applies to everyone in the Spanish team

The success of today’s Spain stems from the quality of its players, the decisions made by the coaching staff and the work of the federation – but above all from order within an always complex coexistence, and the importance given to each and every player in the squad. Luis de la Fuente values structure and hierarchy within the group. That is why the flair and fearlessness of Lamine Yamal matter just as much to him as the authority of players like Aymeric Laporte, Rodri, Mikel Oyarzabal or Unai Simón – and previously Dani Carvajal or Álvaro Morata, who are not shut out and remain part of the group in one way or another. These are players with presence, figures who set the tone for younger teammates, ensuring balance inside a squad built on both talent and discipline.

They are strong personalities, players who command respect from younger teammates. Over the course of this season, the head coach has witnessed moments of tension that he has not liked, particularly in the aftermath of the Spanish clásico clashes between Real Madrid and Barcelona. That is why order – and addressing any issues directly – is so important. Friction such as Carvajal’s run-ins with Lamine or the Barcelona winger’s clashes with Dean Huijsen must be left at the door of the national team’s training base, and above all must not escalate. The message is clear: whatever happens at club level cannot be allowed to fracture the unity of the national side.

This Spain team has been defined by its boldness on the field, but away from it, respect must take precedence. There are rules, and they must be followed. All fines handed out during the European Championship – one player accumulated as much as $87,000 (€80,000) – were ultimately forgiven due to sporting success. That same daring shown by newcomers such as Nico Williams or Lamine Yamal on the pitch also appeared off it, though always within the limits of respect. If that line was crossed, a veteran was always there to remind them. Freedom to express themselves exists, but never at the expense of collective discipline.

“We have a wonderful group,” Luis de la Fuente says whenever asked about his players – footballers chosen by him with the aim of being competitive, but always starting from a foundation of coexistence where roles are clearly defined and respect underpins everything.

Those who lead by example

The head coach is keen to establish clear rules for life within the squad – rules that must be followed without exception. In this regard, it is the captains, generally the more experienced players – even if the armband itself is tied to caps – who take charge. They are the ones who set the tone, ensuring younger players understand the obligation to comply with standards that apply equally to everyone.

During the last, successful European Championship, there was talk of lateness to meetings and meals, punished with $1,090 (€1,000) fines plus $110 (€100) per minute. But what the coach seeks above all is harmony between all members of the squad, ensuring that nothing and no one disrupts the group. It is a principle he has upheld since his first day in charge, one that becomes even more crucial during major tournament camps, where following the established rules is essential. And if anyone doubts it, they need only look at figures like Laporte, Oyarzabal, Unai Simón and Rodri.

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