Luis de la Fuente Sets Spain’s Focus on Wembley Clash After World Cup Triumph

Spain’s head coach Luis de la Fuente has made it clear that despite the recent World Cup success, the team’s journey is far from over. Speaking shortly after Spain’s victory in the 2026 World Cup final, de la Fuente emphasized that maintaining their winning momentum requires focusing on upcoming challenges, particularly their next fixture against England at Wembley.

De la Fuente shared an insightful anecdote from the moments following Spain’s World Cup triumph on 19 July. Within minutes of the final whistle, one of the experienced players, who has been part of the squad for a long time, approached him with a question that captures the spirit of the team: “Mister, now what? What’s left to win?” The coach’s response was immediate and practical, pointing to the next competitive hurdle – the match against England on 26 September at Wembley.

This upcoming fixture is part of Spain’s ongoing campaign in the UEFA Nations League, a tournament that remains a key priority as the national team looks to build on its recent success. The squad called up for this match largely mirrors the team that lifted the World Cup trophy, with 22 of the 26 players from the winning roster included in the latest selection. The continuity reflects de la Fuente’s trust in his core group of players who have already made history.

However, the squad is not without changes. Marcos Llorente has announced his retirement from international football, removing a seasoned midfielder from the team. Joan García is sidelined due to injury, while Borja Iglesias, who was expected to be among the first to depart from the national setup, is currently not fully fit. Additionally, Gavi faces suspension for the Wembley game, although he remains available for the subsequent matches against Croatia and Czechia.

De la Fuente’s remarks underline a broader message: winning the World Cup, while monumental, is not the end goal but rather a step in Spain’s long-term footballing project. The coach’s focus on the next match demonstrates the team’s desire to keep evolving and maintain their status among the elite of international football.

Looking ahead, Spain’s clash with England at Wembley is set to be a significant test of their resilience and quality. Success in this fixture could solidify their position in the Nations League standings and provide momentum heading into the final stages of the competition. Meanwhile, managing player fitness and suspensions will be crucial as de la Fuente navigates the challenges of sustaining Spain’s winning legacy.

For more detailed coverage and updates on Spain’s campaign and Luis de la Fuente’s comments, visit theguardian.com.