The FIFA World Cup draw earlier this week set the path to the final for teams across the globe participating for the elusive trophy that represents the pinnacle of the game.
For Spain, the upcoming tournament represents a special chance to fight for the title with a young core, one that heavily depends on Barcelona.
The likes of Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Dani Olmo, Pau Cubarsi, and Ferran Torres are already important in Luis de la Fuente’s plans, while others like Joan Garcia, Eric Garcia, and Alejandro Balde are all fighting to get into his dynamics.
De La Fuente talks
In a recent interview with MARCA, the Spanish NT manager opened up on whether or not Joan Garcia still had a chance to make it to the national team and if the next international break was his final chance.
“No, because they are football players that I know well. Joan was an international under-21 with me; I know what he can give, and he fits perfectly in our way of working.”
He was then asked to give his honest thoughts on Lamine Yamal and the youngster’s lifestyle, form, and importance in his scheme.
“We talk about football in general. Lamine is a very important player, just like other teams have their own.
Joan Garcia is yet to play for Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
“We must have the intelligence and vision to know what he represents for us: an 18-year-old boy who must continue to be trained in life and in football.”
“He is aware that he must improve, and his disposition is always magnificent. Every day he wants to be better and help the team,” he added.
The rift between Yamal and Carvajal
Finally, the manager opened up on the rift between Yamal and Dani Carvajal and whether he saw it affecting the team’s harmony in any capacity.
“No. There, I take care of keeping the coexistence healthy. I have talked to both of them and I know that these are things that happen in soccer, at such a competitive level.”
“You have to distinguish between what happens in the field and what it means to be in the selection.
“They know it and are looking forward to seeing each other to give each other a hug,” he added.