Luis de la Fuente has made a bold public statement defending Spain's claim to the Ballon d'Or award, directly challenging Morocco's aspirations as the three nations prepare to co-host the 2030 World Cup. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the UEFA Nations League matches, the Spanish national team coach insisted that one of his players deserves football's most prestigious individual honour following their dominance in international football.
De la Fuente expressed frustration at the Ballon d'Or nomination process, specifically highlighting the omission of Mikel Oyarzabal from the candidate list. "I notice the absence of Mikel Oyarzabal's name," the coach remarked. "It seems whoever was responsible for writing down the names dropped the paper and did not include his name." He doubled down on his position by emphasising Spain's superior infrastructure and player development system. "A Spanish footballer should win the Ballon d'Or this year. We are at a world-class level in terms of training, performance and quality," he stated, reinforcing the "Made in Spain" philosophy that has underpinned the national team's recent success in youth competitions and senior tournaments.
Yamal's Future Prospects
De la Fuente singled out young winger Lamine Yamal as a generational talent capable of claiming the award. "I believe Lamine Yamal is capable of winning the Ballon d'Or because he is Spanish and a wonderful footballer. If not this year, then in the future," the coach declared. "I do not think it will take him long to win it. I see him delivering an outstanding performance at the start of this season." Spain's track record in nurturing elite talent has been proven repeatedly over the past decade, with multiple La Liga sides consistently producing world-class performers across all positions.
Squad Changes and 2030 World Cup Ambitions
Beyond the Ballon d'Or debate, De la Fuente confirmed that midfielder Marcos Llorente has decided to retire from international football, a decision the coach respected fully. On emerging talent, he maintained a measured approach regarding prospects like Carlos Espai and Xavi Espart, emphasising there was "no need to rush" while respecting the current generation's achievements.
The coach also reiterated his strong desire for Spain to host the 2030 World Cup final, directly contradicting claims from Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa that his country would stage the tournament's climax. De la Fuente's comments underscore the ongoing diplomatic tensions surrounding hosting arrangements for the tournament, with Spain, Portugal, and Morocco set to jointly organise the competition. His clear positioning signals Spain's determination to retain the final match on home soil and establish his coaching legacy at the sport's biggest stage.
