Luis de la Fuente Supports Pedri, Lamine Yamal, and Gavi Ahead of Spain's World Cup Quarter-final

Luis de la Fuente, head coach of Spain, has voiced strong support for his Barcelona-based players Pedri, Lamine Yamal, and Gavi as the team prepares to face Belgium in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals.

The comments come soon after France secured their place in the semi-finals by defeating Morocco, leaving Spain eager to join them among the last four contenders.

Pedri’s Steady Influence

When asked about Pedri's recent performances, de la Fuente emphasized the midfielder’s consistent importance to the squad. He acknowledged that Pedri might not always deliver spectacular moments but always sets a positive tone on the pitch.

“Very good. Whether he’s on top form or not, he always sets a very good tone. It probably wasn’t the most spectacular performance, but it was certainly effective. And those who came on benefited from that work. You have to bear in mind that not everyone can be at 100%. We’re specialists in that – when one player isn’t at 100 per cent, another steps in to cover for him. With us, he’s always at his best. I’ll stick with the Pedri from the national team.”

Lamine Yamal’s Growth and Potential

On Lamine Yamal, de la Fuente noted the young player’s motivation and the need to keep him calm to avoid anxiety. He believes Yamal has yet to showcase his full brilliance but praised his maturity and defensive contribution in recent matches, especially against strong opponents.

“Yes. I think he’s really motivated. That’s why we need to keep him calm, so that doesn’t turn into anxiety. And we know the best Lamine is yet to come because he hasn’t quite reached that moment of brilliance yet. The other day he had to show his defensive skills against a very powerful opponent, and he did so right up until he took Nuno Mendes out. He played a very mature game. He’s going to reach his full potential in attack because he’s impressive. We’re going to wait for it because he’s got what it takes.”

Gavi’s Ambitious Dream

De la Fuente also addressed Gavi’s bold aspiration to score a bicycle kick in the World Cup final. Instead of brushing it off, the coach welcomed the confidence and praised the youngster’s mindset ahead of the critical match.

“Well, I’d be delighted because it would mean we’d reached the final, and if Gavi – whom we love so much – were to score it on top of that. That just shows he believes we can get there. Gavi is a fantastic lad and a great footballer.”