The Spanish football is going through a phase of international prominence and Luis de la Fuente wants that recognition to also be reflected in the Ballon d'Or. In the lead-up to the match against Croatia for the UEFA Nations League, the coach was asked about the candidates from his country and made his stance clear regarding the upcoming award ceremony.
The coach of La Roja supported all the Spaniards who appear among the nominees and stated: "I would simply say, and I have been saying for a long time, that they deserve it because they are the best in the world".
"I believe that the history of the Ballon d'Or owes more than one Ballon d'Or to Spanish football, in the past I believe there have been players with more than enough merit to have won it before, and for me it was a great joy when Rodrigo won the last one and now I would wish for another Spaniard to win it", he added.
When it came to choosing a name above the rest, the coach avoided leaning towards any of the nine Spanish representatives nominated among field players and goalkeepers. "I can't tell you which one, because I would be equally happy with any of the nine among field players and goalkeepers who are nominated. Not just for the whim of saying that I have more or less relationship, because football-wise, in my opinion, they are the best in the world in their positions,” he stated.
His nomination for best coach
However, the Ballon d'Or also has him among its nominees. The Spanish coach was included in the category for coaches (Johan Cruyff Trophy) and acknowledged that he feels proud to be part of the list, although he admitted that he does not usually promote his candidacy.
"I don't know what the criteria is for voting. I have always said that I want a Spaniard to win. In the section for footballers obviously, but in the one for coaches too", he replied when asked if he would run a campaign similar to that of some of the nominated players.
Regarding his own chance of winning, De la Fuente assured that all candidates have made merits and emphasized the satisfaction he feels for being considered. "We have all made merits, I mean among the five. I am happy to be nominated, for me it is a great recognition and a pride, but I don't like to campaign. It would make me very excited, I would love it. Take note: I would like to win it", he expressed.
The nominees from Spain for the Ballon d'Or
Best Player of the Year
Pau Cubarsí (Barcelona)
Marc Cucurella (Chelsea - Real Madrid)
Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Rodri (Manchester City - Barcelona)
Fabián Ruiz (Paris Saint-Germain)
