Olmo: Distracting Álvarez might work, but he doesn't say much on the pitch

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, Spain midfielder Olmo was interviewed by Cadena SER. Below is the second part of that interview.

You've scored 12 goals for Spain and made around 56 international appearances. You joined the national team under Luis de la Fuente when he was coaching the U21s, and made your senior debut in a difficult match against Malta. You scored on your debut and netted three goals at the European Championship, but haven't scored at a World Cup yet. I'd say Rodri has played well in the latter stages, but the most well-rounded player who has driven Spain's attacking force is you. Do you dream of scoring in a World Cup final for Spain?

Of course. If I had the chance to score a goal that would secure the trophy and help us win, that would be a dream come true. But that's not all I'm thinking about right now. I'm focused on helping the team and winning. After that, it doesn't matter who scores—what matters is that the team wins. That's my goal.

Have you ever dreamed of becoming a player like Iniesta?

I think Iniesta is unique. I'd say my dream is to be the 2026 version of Dani Olmo. Hopefully that becomes reality.

Because Iniesta was the first to do it. You could be his successor, you could become a legend, but Iniesta had the luck of being the only one.

Nobody can be like him. I think that moment and now can't be compared. It will certainly be different. The feeling of ecstasy might be similar, but it will never be the same.

Are you worried about playing in an atmosphere like "La Bombonera"? According to the FA, of the 80,000 fans at MetLife Stadium, the ratio might be 7:3 or 8:2 in Argentina's favor. That means Argentine fans will heavily dominate the streets of Manhattan and inside the stadium. For a player starting in a World Cup final, is this pressure small, large, or nonexistent?

We're not worried because we feel the support of our fans and the entire nation directly—in the stadium, on the streets, and in Spain. We can feel that strong connection. Even if there are more Argentine fans than Spanish fans in the stadium, we're fighting for our entire nation.

Does that even motivate you?

Yes, of course. When facing tackles or aggression from opponents, we need to stay focused on our own performance. They'll cheer for their team, but we shouldn't be distracted.

How is Luis de la Fuente doing in these final hours? Everyone is talking about you, Rodri, Laporte, Pedri, Merino, Cucurella, Pedro Porro, and Unai Simón. Compared to the European Championship two years ago, how do you feel about the coach? What has Luis de la Fuente given you? He always praises you as a "good lad," "good person," and "great player." What's your take on Luis de la Fuente?

The coach is calm and confident in us. He transmits that feeling to the team, which reassures everyone. On the eve of the World Cup final, everything is normal, and he acts naturally. When the moment arrives, we'll be even more invested.

We saw the coach that day, and his shirt looked tighter than yours.

Yes, he works out regularly.

He trains very hard. I also want to ask you about "family feeling," where every detail matters. Today, the US reported on the nutritionist you work with alongside some Barcelona players. You look in great shape, as do the others—you probably wanted to indulge in a big meal long ago, as you've reached the limits of dietary control. How much does positive feedback affect you physically and mentally? How does it feel to find someone who can get you into peak condition, apart from your fitness coach? Are you currently in the best shape of your career?

Yes. Nutrition is indeed crucial. Details determine success or failure. I've always believed everything should be in moderation. Self-discipline is good, but there's always time to relax and eat what you want—within reason, of course. Our current preparation is ideal, and I know what's best for me. I've tried many things over the years, and I know what works for me. We'll repeat this successful approach.

Your president, Joan Laporta, also came to Manhattan, and he spoke about your opponent, Álvarez. Will you take this chance to say something to Álvarez?

I've known Julián for a long time and played against him many times. He's a great guy and a top player. This will be a fantastic final and a good reunion.

Won't you ask him about his transfer progress?

Not at all.

Maybe you could try to distract him a bit: "Hey, how's it going with Barcelona? Are you coming?"

Maybe distracting him will work, but we'll see. Julián is a very focused player—he doesn't talk much.

He spoke after Argentina's match.

I'm talking about on the pitch.

I understand. He said after the match that he wants to fulfill his dream, and everyone knows his dream is to wear a Barcelona shirt.

Since he said that, then he should fight for his dream. But that's not my focus right now. He's doing what he needs to do, and we start on Sunday.

What if we win?

Then we'll celebrate wildly with the entire nation.

Not just the trophy, but also rings. This time, like the NBA, championship rings have been introduced. It's the first time. That's very cool. Do you like the idea?

Yes, I really like it. We did this at Leipzig and when we were teammates at Barcelona, it's a lifetime keepsake.

Lamine is wearing a necklace and rings—he might not even get through airport security.

That's fine, let him take the ring. That's good news.

Diterjemahkan oleh AI.

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