"I don't compare Lamine Yamal to anyone; he still has a lot to learn," says Luis de la Fuente

De la Fuente

Spain will close the group stage against Albania in a match where they have nothing at stake, having already secured their qualification and top spot in the group. Coach Luis de la Fuente spoke to the press, emphasizing that he does not want to compare young talent Lamine Yamal to anyone else.

"We have a lot of prestige and recognition at stake. We have to keep improving. We're approaching it as if it were our last. The best players are going to take part in this match. We're only thinking about winning," de la Fuente stated.

When asked about the TAD's proposal to disqualify Pedro Rocha, de la Fuente refrained from commenting: "We think about football. What happens outside doesn't affect us. We represent a country; we only focus on football."

Regarding possible rotations, he affirmed: "We will field the best players for this game. This is a seven-game competition. Without thinking about suspensions, injuries... we're thinking about winning."

De la Fuente addressed the inconvenience posed by Nacho's situation: "We have incorporated him. There would be players who could be in that position. I'm not one for inventions," he said about possibly placing a midfielder in the center of defense.

On Fermin's debut, he commented: "He made his debut in Badajoz. He is a full international. He's ready, with fantastic enthusiasm. He can play, like the rest of his teammates. We'll see who starts and who will come in later. Fermín is very important. He's earning it."

Responding to Albania's praise, de la Fuente remarked: "It's always nice when people speak well of you. I speak well of Albania too. We have no doubt that it will be a tough match. We will make the changes we see fit. We'll put out the best team for this game. They can all play at a very high level."

Finally, de la Fuente called for calm and tranquility regarding Lamine Yamal: "I'm not comparing Lamine Yamal to anyone. And Messi has been mentioned. The other day I read some statements. The important thing is to be a good person. Prudence and humility? Calm, tranquility... He still has a lot to learn."