Spanish national team coach Luis de la Fuente has spoken highly of Barcelona’s growing influence on the national side, with special praise directed at Joan Garcia, Arnau Tenas, and teenage sensation...
Spanish national team coach Luis de la Fuente has spoken highly of Barcelona’s growing influence on the national side, with special praise directed at Joan Garcia, Arnau Tenas, and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Spain will soon announce the squad list for their crucial matches against Bulgaria and Turkey.
As such, Barcelona are expected to have a strong presence, much like the last call-up, where six of Hansi Flick’s men were included for the UEFA Nations League finals.
Praise for Joan Garcia
The coach highlighted the talent within Barcelona’s squad, particularly goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who joined Barça this season.
Many see him as a potential surprise inclusion for the upcoming international fixtures. De la Fuente, however, made it clear his admiration goes beyond the Barcelona badge.
“It’s not because he’s at Barcelona. He did very well at Espanyol. I met him when he was 18 or 19 years old.
“I know of his potential from previous seasons. He could easily make it,” said the Spain coach.
Still, he warned about the challenges of making the cut. “It’s not easy to get into the 23-man squad. The lists are of a very high level.
“It’s not easy to get those who are there. In the top 10 goalkeepers, there are six or seven Spaniards.”
Tenas receives special mention
Luis de la Fuente has nothing but praise for Joan Garcia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
De la Fuente was also asked about the future of Barcelona’s other young goalkeeper, Arnau Tenas.
“Arnau (Tenas) is another super-keeper who hasn’t had the opportunities. The younger ones are the ones who theoretically have the most experience.
“Unai Simon, Raya, Robert Sanchez, and Remiro also have a lot. Joan is very good and has a bright future.”
On Lamine Yamal
On Lamine Yamal, arguably the brightest young star in world football right now, the coach urged for patience:
“Lamine is 18 years old but very mature. He lives football very intensely and knows how to handle a situation as complicated as making his debut with the national team at 16 years old.
“He has a fantastic capacity for sacrifice, is generous, and a great teammate. He is a genius in football. He has enormous talent.
“We should focus more on that than on whether he has bought a car, a motorcycle or is seen with a girlfriend. Lamine has not done anything that can be criticised,” he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo
Category: General Sports
