Luis de la Fuente talks Lamine Yamal’s fitness, Dani Olmo, Pedri: ‘We’ve been very cautious’

Luis de la Fuente talks Lamine Yamal’s fitness, Dani Olmo, Pedri: ‘We’ve been very cautious’ Spain head into their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 encounter against Austria with confidence growing within the camp, and much of the discussion before the game has revolved around Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and a midfield that continues to impress. Speaking to the media ahead of the knockout fixture, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente touched on several key topics, including the understanding between Barcelona duo Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal, the form of Pedri and Rodri, and whether the teenage sensation is ready to play a full match. De la Fuente praises Yamal and Olmo connection One of Spain’s biggest strengths in recent years has been the chemistry between players who already know each other from club football, and De la Fuente believes that has helped Yamal and Olmo settle naturally alongside one another. Explaining the partnership between the two Barcelona players, the Spain manager said, “Players who play together at their club have a closer footballing rapport. That’s normal. But this is the national team.  “The downside is the lack of time. Yet they’re so talented that they make up for those disadvantages to realise their full potential.  “The strength of a national team lies in knowing how to combine all these elements and what makes it strong. And that is our strength,” he explained. De la Fuente has praised the chemistry within the national team. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) De la Fuente was also asked about comments made by Lamine Yama l regarding Spain’s confidence and the belief that they can compete with any nation in the tournament. Rather than viewing those remarks negatively, the Spanish coach welcomed the mentality shown by his young winger. “He’s optimistic and very confident in his own abilities and those of his teammates. We’re aware of our potential. Those are very positive words.” On Pedri and Spain’s midfield options Spain’s midfield has once again emerged as one of the team’s biggest assets at the World Cup, with Pedri and Rodri playing important roles in the tournament so far. However, De la Fuente stressed that the depth available in midfield gives him numerous solutions ahead of the Austria encounter. Assessing the performances of his midfielders, he said, “I think they’re doing very well. They’re improving and developing.  “Every day they gain more confidence and assurance. Let’s not forget Fabián, Zubimendi… It gives me goosebumps. They’re in top form.  Spain have managed Lamine Yamal very carefully. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) “So far, they’ve done very well. Whoever plays, it’s always a winning choice because they’re all very good.” Is Lamine Yamal ready to start? One of the biggest talking points surrounding Spain ahead of the Round of 32 has been Yamal’s fitness and whether he is prepared to play a full 90 minutes. The Barcelona star has been managed carefully throughout the competition, featuring for limited periods as the coaching staff look to avoid taking unnecessary risks. De la Fuente admitted that although caution has guided their approach, he insisted the teenager is physically capable of contributing whenever needed. “He’s ready to play for as long as is required of him. We’ve been very cautious with his playing time, as we are with all injuries.  “But he’s doing very well. We will see if he plays,” he concluded. Source: AS