De la Fuente Warns Spain to Expect Croatia Backlash in Split
Luis de la Fuente has warned Spain not to underestimate Croatia as La Roja prepare for Wednesday’s UEFA Nations League trip to Split, insisting the hosts remain one of international football’s elite despite recent heavy defeats.
De la Fuente expects Croatia response
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Spain head to Croatia after a 4-0 win over the same opponents six days ago, with Luka Modrić’s side also attempting to recover from a 7-0 loss to England.
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De la Fuente said Croatia’s recent results should not obscure a decade of high-level international performances. He expects the version of Croatia Spain planned for, rather than a side affected by one damaging result.
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The Spain coach expects a fierce atmosphere in Split but believes his squad will be ready for it. He said his players are accustomed to intense stadiums, comparing the challenge to playing at San Mamés.
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Spain are targeting another Nations League victory after wins over England, Croatia and the Czech Republic during the current run of fixtures.
De la Fuente said his selection group has been built around players suited to Spain’s model, adding that newcomers settle quickly within what he described as an outstanding group of people.
Yamal’s growing influence
Lamine Yamal remains central to Spain’s plans. De la Fuente said the teenager has developed through both age and experience, becoming more mature while adding goals to his creative work.
The coach highlighted Yamal’s demanding attitude and said his current form is valuable to the national side. Spain are managing the youngster’s workload, but his displays have made him increasingly difficult to leave out of the starting line-up.
Merino backed as key substitute
De la Fuente also singled out Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino, describing him as a dependable option capable of changing a match from the bench.
The Spain boss said he has worked with Merino throughout his coaching career and trusts his influence in decisive late-game periods. In his view, a player introduced around the 60th minute can carry greater weight in the result than a starter.
“This is a team,” De la Fuente said, stressing that every member of the squad must be prepared when called upon.
