The Spanish national team coach Luis de la Fuente appeared at the press conference following the presentation of the list of 26 players of the Spanish national team for the November UEFA Nations League matches against Denmark and Switzerland, corresponding to matchdays five and six of this competition. During this appearance, the coach from La Rioja addressed a variety of topics, emphasizing issues related to both Barcelona and various players from the Catalan club.
In this regard, De la Fuente had the opportunity to praise Barcelona, which currently stands out as the team that contributes the most players to the Spanish national team, with a total of four members (Marc Casadó, Pedri González, Dani Olmo, and Lamine Yamal). He also highlighted the number of opportunities that the Blaugrana team provides for players to debut and establish themselves in La Liga: "We don't look at where the players come from, we only value good footballers. Barcelona is doing a fantastic job like many clubs in Spain. It's about giving opportunities."
"Young talented people never fail. We must bet on domestic talent. We celebrate it. They do many things well. They select well and provide opportunities to show how good they are," commented De la Fuente.
The absences of Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez
Regarding the selection of players, De la Fuente responded to questions about assets from FC Barcelona who were not called up, despite showing good performances for the Catalan team, which is one of the best in the world currently. In this context, he explained the reason behind not calling up Pau Cubarsí, which seemed evident. "Pau had a very significant injury. Nine stitches. Deep. It wasn't worth it. We take care of the players' health. We understood that there was no need to take any risks with Pau," the coach stated.
On the other hand, when addressing the issue of defense and the controversial decision not to call up Iñigo Martínez, considered one of the best Spanish defenders currently, De la Fuente preferred not to delve too deeply into explaining this situation. "Nothing has been done capriciously. We are not suspected of being close to the public. There are moments and moments. It will not stop. It is thought to be the best for the team, and we try to meet all the needs demanded by the fans," the Riojan warned.
Ferran Torres' injury status and Gavi's return to the national team
Furthermore, the coach from La Rioja also talked about Ferran Torres, who is injured with a hamstring injury in his right thigh, and whose medical clearance has not yet been granted by Barcelona. "Ferran is not recovering. While he is injured, we have not considered the possibility of him being with us," noted De la Fuente.
Now, regarding the perspective on the possible call-up of Pablo Gavi, De la Fuente expressed optimism about his current situation, anticipating the midfielder's return to the national team soon. "He is in the natural process. We must be careful. It has been a year since he was injured, and his progress is exceptional. Gavi is all about energy, character, and enthusiasm, but caution is necessary. The management of his club is spectacular," the coach pointed out.
"We are looking forward to him being in perfect condition and even more confident. It is good for him, and I don't have to tell you how much we want him. Also, his club. It is very important for the National Team," he stated.
Marc Casadó's call-up
Finally, Luis de la Fuente addressed the issue of the call-up of Marc Casadó, who receives his first call-up to the Spanish national team. In this context, the coach explained the reasons that led him to consider his call-up for this occasion. "It is thanks to his confidence and talent. There are players who need that demand to bring out the best in themselves. Great professionals show their best side when faced with the biggest challenges," the Riojan concluded.
"He is a clear case of a player who has a lot to say and improve. From now on, we will demand much more from him. They have a lot of capacity and room for improvement," he added.