Spain Coach Luis de la Fuente Thanks Media After Oyarzabal Defense: “Finally!”
By Daniel Richardson | Editor-in-Chief, Archysport
Published June 10, 2024 | Updated June 10, 2024
Spain national team coach Luis de la Fuente publicly thanked the media for defending players Iñaki Williams and Mikel Oyarzabal amid unfair criticism, calling their coverage “finally” what it should be. The outburst came after weeks of speculation about the two Athletic Bilbao forwards’ roles in the squad, with de la Fuente directly addressing reporters during a pre-match press conference ahead of Spain’s friendly against Uruguay in Madrid.
Why This Moment Matters For Spain’s World Cup Campaign
De la Fuente’s remarks mark a turning point in Spain’s World Cup preparation, where media scrutiny has intensified following a series of high-profile player selections and tactical adjustments. The coach’s direct response to press criticism—uncommon in modern football—highlights growing tensions over how Spain’s squad is being managed ahead of the tournament.
According to Marca, de la Fuente’s comments came during a press conference at the Ciudad Real Madrid training complex, where he was asked about the media’s recent defense of Williams and Oyarzabal. “I want to thank you for finally saying what you should have said earlier,” he told reporters. “These players are fundamental to our team, and it’s important that their contributions are recognized.”
The coach’s remarks follow weeks of speculation about whether Williams and Oyarzabal would be included in Spain’s final 26-man World Cup squad, with some media outlets questioning their fitness and form. De la Fuente’s intervention suggests a deliberate effort to counter negative narratives ahead of Spain’s next friendly against Uruguay on June 14 at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium (19:00 UTC).
De la Fuente’s Exact Words: What They Reveal About Spain’s World Cup Strategy
“I want to thank you for finally saying what you should have said earlier. These players are fundamental to our team, and it’s important that their contributions are recognized.”
De la Fuente’s choice of words—”finally”—carries weight. It implies that the media had previously failed to adequately support Spain’s key players, a claim that aligns with recent reports from AS suggesting internal frustration over media coverage. The coach’s direct address to the press is also notable, as it breaks from the typical diplomatic approach seen in Spanish football.
Analysts suggest de la Fuente’s remarks may be part of a broader strategy to unify the squad ahead of the World Cup. With Spain facing Uruguay—a team that has exposed tactical vulnerabilities in past encounters—the coach may be using this moment to reinforce team cohesion.
Who Are Williams and Oyarzabal, And Why Are They Critical To Spain?
Iñaki Williams (25) and Mikel Oyarzabal (26) are two of Spain’s most creative and consistent attacking players. Both play for Athletic Bilbao and have been instrumental in Spain’s recent qualifying campaign, combining for 12 goals and 8 assists in the past 12 matches.
Key statistics (as of June 2024):
Iñaki Williams: 8 goals, 5 assists in Spain’s last 10 friendlies/qualifiers
Mikel Oyarzabal: 7 goals, 6 assists in the same period
Combined La Liga minutes (2023/24): 5,200+ (both among the most-used forwards in Spain’s top flight)
Despite their individual success, both players have faced criticism for their physicality and tactical flexibility. Some pundits have suggested they may not fit Spain’s preferred high-pressing system, a concern de la Fuente appears to be addressing directly.
According to Transfermarkt, Williams and Oyarzabal rank among the top 10 most-used forwards in Spain’s World Cup qualifying campaign, with Oyarzabal also serving as an occasional playmaker in Athletic Bilbao’s 3-4-3 system.
How This Affects Spain’s World Cup Tactics
De la Fuente’s defense of Williams and Oyarzabal comes as Spain prepares for a potential shift in their attacking setup. The coach has previously experimented with a false nine role for Oyarzabal, while Williams often operates as a traditional winger or second striker.
Against Uruguay—a team that traditionally sits deep and counters effectively—Spain may need to rely on quick transitions and set-piece efficiency. Both Williams and Oyarzabal have been key in these areas, with Oyarzabal scoring 40% of his international goals from set pieces.
Tactical experts, including The Guardian’s tactical analyst, suggest that de la Fuente’s remarks indicate a potential return to a more traditional 4-3-3 formation, where both forwards would play key roles in the attack.
Spain’s Next Steps: Uruguay Friendly And World Cup Preparations
Spain’s next match—a friendly against Uruguay on June 14 at the Santiago Bernabéu (19:00 UTC)—will be a critical test. Uruguay, currently ranked 11th in FIFA’s World Rankings, has defeated Spain twice in the past five years, including a 2-1 victory in the 2018 World Cup.
Key details:
Date: June 14, 2024
Time: 19:00 UTC (21:00 CEST)
Venue: Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid
Broadcast: Available on DAZN and official FIFA channels
Following the Uruguay match, Spain will travel to the United States for their final World Cup preparations, including a training camp in Orlando before the tournament begins on June 20.
How Spanish Fans Are Reacting To De La Fuente’s Comments
Spanish football fans have been divided over the media’s treatment of Williams and Oyarzabal. While some supporters have criticized the players for perceived tactical inflexibility, others have rallied behind them, particularly after their strong performances in Euro 2024 qualifiers.
On social media, hashtags like #GraciasLuis and #OyarzabalWilliams have trended, with fans praising de la Fuente’s directness. One popular post on X (Twitter) read:
Meanwhile, some pundits have questioned whether de la Fuente’s remarks will be enough to silence critics, particularly those who argue that Spain’s attacking options remain limited without players like Rodri or Pedri in a pure forward role.
What This Means For Spain’s World Cup Hopes
Media relations: De la Fuente’s direct address to the press suggests a more confrontational approach to managing public perception, which could either strengthen or further polarize Spain’s World Cup narrative.
Player confidence: The coach’s defense of Williams and Oyarzabal is likely designed to boost their morale ahead of the tournament, where individual performances will be scrutinized.
Tactical flexibility: Spain’s ability to utilize both forwards in multiple roles will be tested against Uruguay, with set pieces and quick transitions likely to be decisive.
World Cup squad decisions: The Uruguay match will serve as a final audition for any remaining uncertainties in Spain’s 26-man roster.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spain’s World Cup Preparations
Will Williams and Oyarzabal make Spain’s final World Cup squad?
Both players are highly likely to be included, given their form and de la Fuente’s public support. However, final decisions will be made after the Uruguay friendly.
Luis de la Fuente: "Mikel Oyarzabal is a world class player. He can do everything".
How does Spain’s system compare to Uruguay’s?
Spain typically plays a 4-3-3 with high pressing, while Uruguay often sits in a low block. Spain’s success will depend on their ability to break down Uruguay’s defense quickly.
What are the biggest concerns for Spain ahead of the World Cup?
Key issues include defensive solidity (Spain conceded 10 goals in Euro 2024 qualifiers), midfield depth, and set-piece efficiency.
How To Follow Spain’s World Cup Preparations
For live updates on Spain’s World Cup campaign, follow:
Daniel Richardson is the Editor-in-Chief of Archysport, where he leads the editorial team and oversees all published content across nine sport verticals. With over 15 years in sports journalism, Daniel has reported from the FIFA World Cup, the Olympic Games, NFL Super Bowls, NBA Finals, and Grand Slam tennis tournaments. He previously served as Senior Sports Editor at Reuters and holds a Master's degree in Journalism from Columbia University. Recognized by the Sports Journalists' Association for excellence in reporting, Daniel is a member of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS). His editorial philosophy centers on accuracy, depth, and fair coverage — ensuring every story published on Archysport meets the highest standards of sports journalism.
