Luis de la Fuente (65) has highlighted what it means to reach a World Cup final when told that nobody remembers the runner-up. "Just being in a final is a privilege. I'm not one for cliches. The important thing is to be there. I'd sign up to lose a World Cup final every year. That's how important it is. And on top of that, having the chance to fight for the win. You have to enjoy it. Against an opponent who has been outstanding ever since Scaloni took over."
The coach of La Roja expects a very evenly matched game. "It will be a great spectacle. Two top teams, with many similarities in their style. Each of us will try to take the game where it suits us best. But the main thing is that brilliance wins out over any circumstance. The referees are there to help and to look after the show."
De la Fuente believes you have to enjoy the match. "I'm nervous because we're flying back by helicopter (from the press conference). It's a privilege to be in this situation. What we want is to enjoy this incredible moment. And to be fully focused on the competition."
The man from Haro will play his fourth final with Spain and points out the secret. "Work, work, and more work, and even then things don't always go your way. You have to surround yourself with good people, a good coaching staff that helps you fight for something important."
Argentina
Regarding Messi, he rules out man-marking him. “I met Messi when I was coaching Sevilla's youth teams. At first, we marked him man-to-man. I changed a player and he scored four goals. We're not going to use man-marking, but they'll also be watching our players."
About Scaloni, his friend, he said the following. “We have a great relationship. We're both fierce competitors. There's a mutual admiration.”
He also defended the Argentina national team when asked if he thought they played dirty. "I respect everyone's opinions. But I have great admiration for a team that are world and South American champions, led by a friend of mine. It's admiration and recognition. Each team will use their footballing strengths, and whoever minimizes the opponent's virtues will be closer to winning.”
About the match, he thinks it will be decided by small details. "They've had some tough footballing moments. When I talk about similarities in character, it's true. I see it in Scaloni and myself. We have a lot in common. You have to win through the details, stay true to our idea, and try to impose ourselves. When it's time to suffer, we'll suffer, and when we can, we'll try to get ahead."
Lamine Yamal
De la Fuente spoke about Lamine Yamal's current condition. "He took a hard knock in a painful area (what we call a dead leg). Yesterday (Thursday) we preferred he rest, and today (Friday) he trained as normal. He's in perfect physical condition."
He also mentioned that he spoke with the previous coach who won a World Cup with Spain. "I've already asked Del Bosque. He's someone I care about a lot and a football wise man. He's been through this situation and it's good to get his advice.”