Spain manager Luis de la Fuente says a united dressing room is essential to competing at the highest level, and revealed that Marc Cucurella would be his first choice for both a week-long holiday and a night out.
In an interview with El Mundo, highlighted by Spanish newspaper Sport, de la Fuente spoke about the importance of solidarity, commitment and team spirit within the Spain squad. His comments offered an insight into the relationships he has built with his players, as well as the qualities he values away from the pitch.
Cucurella was the first player mentioned when de la Fuente was asked about a tattoo that carries the manager’s face. The Chelsea full-back had apparently promised to have the tattoo done, and the Spain boss praised him for keeping his word.
“Cucurella’s tattoo with my face? He kept his word, and that is also a very important principle and value. He is a man who keeps his promises,” said de la Fuente.
The manager was then asked which Spain player he would take on holiday for a week. He did not hesitate before selecting Cucurella.
“If I want to have fun, I would go with Cucurella,” he said.
De la Fuente chose the same player when asked who he would take out to celebrate and stay out late. He responded with a laugh: “Since I am going on holiday with him, I will take him with me as well.”
The answers underline the warm relationship between the Spain manager and Cucurella, while also reflecting de la Fuente’s wider emphasis on creating a close-knit group. He has repeatedly highlighted the value of players supporting one another and accepting their responsibilities as part of the national team.
De la Fuente’s choices away from football
The questions also covered several other members of the Spain squad. De la Fuente said he would leave his house keys with Mikel Oyarzabal, suggesting the Real Sociedad forward is someone he trusts.
He added that he would enter a business project with Mikel Merino, whom he described as “a very serious person” with a strong sense of responsibility.
De la Fuente also revealed that he would attend a concert by singer Julio Iglesias with Marcos Llorente.
The Spain manager was finally asked which players he believes have the potential to become coaches in the future. He identified three members of the squad: Rodri, Mikel Oyarzabal and Mikel Merino.
“Rodri, Mikel Oyarzabal and Mikel Merino have good qualities to become coaches,” said de la Fuente.
His comments place character and leadership alongside footballing ability as important elements of Spain’s squad, with the manager presenting the players as individuals capable of contributing both on and off the pitch.
