Dani Olmo uses chess as a mental tool to maintain focus and tactical discipline within the Spanish national team, according to the Barcelona midfielder. Olmo stated that while players engage in competitive matches of the game before kickoff to build camaraderie, the primary objective remains the tactical preparation for the match.
Chess and Tactical Focus in the Spanish Camp
For Dani Olmo, the board game is less about leisure and more about a mental bridge to the pitch. The Barcelona midfielder confirmed that the squad plays chess consistently before matches, often pairing up with goalkeeper Unai Simón. Olmo noted that while the players “get competitive” during these games, the activity serves as a backdrop for discussing essential match details.
“We always play chess,” Olmo said. He explained that the conversations during these games cover “little things” and tactical specifics, such as how to exit pressure and provide support to teammates on the field. According to Olmo, the competitive nature of the game does not distract from the objective, asserting that “the focus is on the match.”
Olmo’s Path to the Starting XI
Olmo’s current role in Luis de la Fuente’s system follows a familiar pattern in his international career. He began the World Cup as a substitute, mirroring his trajectory during the 2019 European Under-21 Championship and the previous European Championship, where he entered the rotation following Pedri’s injury.
In the tournament’s opening match against Cape Verde, the midfield was composed of Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, and Pedri. Olmo entered the lineup for the second match against Saudi Arabia, replacing Ruiz. He remained a fixture until the match against Uruguay, where he was substituted for Mikel Merino.
Olmo described this recurring need to earn his place as a personal motivator. “I think in my life or in my sporting career I have always had to demonstrate who I am, but it is not a problem,” Olmo said. He added that he maintains a high level of self-demand and views the opportunity to prove his value “once more” as a standard part of his professional journey.
Tactical Synergy with Pedri and Lamine
The presence of Olmo in the lineup alters the spatial dynamics of the Spanish attack. By playing closer to the penalty area, Olmo creates a tactical vacuum that allows Pedri more freedom to operate in the creative phase of the buildup. Olmo stated that he enjoys “studying the space” and provoking openings to allow teammates to penetrate the defense.
Olmo specifically highlighted the importance of Pedri, describing him as a “spectacle” to watch both with and without the ball. “Knowing that Pedri is playing gives you a plus,” Olmo said, emphasizing that Pedri is an essential component of the team’s structure.
Olmo also addressed the form of young winger Lamine. Despite a slow start to the World Cup and early challenges, Olmo reported that Lamine has improved steadily. “I see him going from less to more,” Olmo said, noting a strong on-field connection between the two. While acknowledging that Lamine’s statistical output might not place him among the tournament’s top performers yet, Olmo argued that his speed and dribbling provide immense value regardless of goals or assists.
Collective Defense and the Role of Unai Simón
The Spanish defensive record, anchored by Unai Simón, is viewed by Olmo as a collective achievement rather than an individual one. He emphasized a philosophy where the defensive effort begins with the forwards, stating, “The number 9 starts and the others follow.”
Olmo credited the synergy between the backline and Simón as “historic,” noting that maintaining a clean sheet significantly increases the probability of victory when the team is creating chances and scoring goals.
This collective mentality extends to the bench. Olmo dismissed the idea of individual stardom, asserting that players who enter as substitutes are often the ones to close out matches in the final minutes. “We are a team; we all feel important,” he said, echoing the leadership philosophy of head coach Luis de la Fuente.
Spain will look to maintain this tactical cohesion and defensive solidity as they progress through the knockout stages of the competition. Fans can follow official updates on match schedules and squad selections via the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) official channels.
What do you think of the “chess culture” in the Spanish locker room? Does mental gaming translate to better tactical execution on the pitch? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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