A bald man with glasses and a microphone, with the FC Barcelona and Real Madrid crests in the background. — Madrid and Barça do not understand it | Europa Press, E-Noticies

Camara — Madrid and Barça do not understand it | Europa Press, E-Noticies

Luis de la Fuente's situation is confirmed, Barça and Real Madrid are stunned, nobody understands it

De la Fuente sparks debate again with a decision that surprises both insiders and outsiders within national soccer

12/10/2025 10:00:00h

Miguel Rueda

Luis de la Fuente's management at the helm of the Spanish national team has been, so far, a model of success. Under his leadership, the national team has regained excitement and has returned to competing at the highest level. His ability to form a united group has been key in winning the latest European Championship.

De la Fuente has built a solid foundation with footballers he has known since the youth categories. He fully trusts them and, with that structure, he is now pursuing the main goal: winning the World Cup. His cautious style and his commitment to youth have restored Spain's competitive character.

A management style that generates constant debate

Despite the results, some of his decisions raise many doubts among fans. Luis de la Fuente is loyal to his trusted group and rarely deviates from the script. However, there are absences that are hard to understand, especially when it comes to footballers in top form.

Bald man with a gray beard and blue round glasses wearing a light blue jacket against a background of red, blue, purple, and gray stripes with a yellow glow effect

He has been surrounded by controversy for several weeks | Europa Press, E-Noticies

Both in the press and on social media, an intense debate has emerged about his drafts. Many agree that there are names who deserve an opportunity because of their performance, but who still do not appear on the lists.

The most talked-about absences in the Spanish national team

Among the most discussed decisions are those affecting the left-back position, an area where Spain has a lot of young talent. De la Fuente has tried different options, but he has left out two names who, for many, should be regulars.

A player in a white uniform controls the ball while an opponent in a yellow uniform tries to take it away during a match in a stadium full of spectators.

Carreras has played almost every minute at an extremely high level with Madrid | Europa Press

One of the most striking cases is that of Álvaro Carreras. The Real Madrid defender is having a spectacular season, establishing himself as one of the revelations of the year. However, De la Fuente still doesn't include him, something that has caused confusion both inside and outside the white club.

Alejandro Balde's case is not very different. Barça's left-back has shown that he is in good shape after a start marked by an injury, showing speed, precision, and maturity in defense. Even so, he is also not included in the national team's drafts.

Two players celebrate a goal in a stadium full of fans.

Balde is coming back from an injury, but he was essential for Barça | @FCBarcelona

Luis de la Fuente's dilemma before the World Cup

These decisions raise doubts about the direction Spain will take ahead of the next World Cup. Luis de la Fuente wants continuity, but he risks closing the door to emerging talents. Many believe that bringing in young players in top form would strengthen the group without altering its essence.

The Spanish national team has a solid foundation, but it needs to keep evolving to stay at the top. That means recognizing the merit of those who stand out week after week at their clubs.

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