This Friday, newly crowned World Cup champions Spain announced their squad for the October Nations League matches. Coach de la Fuente answered media questions at the press conference.

Your contract renewal is almost finalized. What does this mean to you?

Please allow me to leave news related to the renewal to the Football Association. The Spanish Football Association will make an announcement at the appropriate time.

There are 4 matches during this international break. Does the new format greatly affect your work?

I don't like it. I prefer the old format. We have to play 4 demanding matches, some of which require long travels. I prefer the previous format, with more rest, which better protects the players' health.

Tell us about the new faces in the squad, Josep Martínez and Roberto Fernández.

I coached Josep when he was in the U21s. We trust him greatly. He's a Serie A and Coppa Italia champion—very reliable. As for Roberto, we've been following him for a long time, and now is the right time. He's performing very well this season with 6 goals, which perfectly matches the type of striker we're looking for.

Should the Ballon d'Or go to Rodri or Yamal?

They are both Spanish, so if it were up to me, I would give the Ballon d'Or to a Spaniard. I believe they both deserve it; they have the talent to earn this recognition.

What do you think of the numerous Ceuta-supporting shirts seen recently in La Liga?

Today my sense of belonging to Ceuta is stronger than yesterday.

This squad is largely the same as the World Cup squad, but was Roberto the hardest selection?

We try to consider all possible scenarios, and we have put together a very balanced squad. How can we not continue to use players who have already won everything? But this doesn't mean we won't give opportunities to those knocking on the national team's door. However, once they knock, they have to cross that threshold themselves to stay. We want to give them this recognition and a chance to prove themselves in the national team.

The Czech Republic is one of your opponents this time. You are very familiar with their coach (former Spain U21 coach Santi Denia). What makes Spanish coaches so highly regarded?

Youth development. We have been at the forefront of youth development for a long time, and our achievements have been evident for years. Now, with our various championship wins, our work is gaining even more recognition. We are a model in youth development, which is the foundation for Spanish coaches to stand out.

Llorente has announced his retirement from the national team. Porro's form is rather precarious. Who will play at right-back—Eric or Puvel?

Best wishes to Marcos Llorente. We fully respect and support his decision. I've known him since 2013 or 2014, and he made his debut in my U19 team. We have sufficient personnel at right-back, including Porro and Eric García this time. Even if not, we can look at the U21s: Fresneda, Espart. There are many players who can play in this position.

Is there anything to worry about after winning the championship?

My only concern is the players' health, and I hope they can play for us. The final just ended, everyone was still emotional, and two or three minutes later a player came up to me and asked: "What else do we have to win?" Then it's the match against England on September 26. This team will not stop moving forward; we will not be satisfied with the World Cup title; we want to get even stronger. Our current achievements are not enough to win the next match. I have no doubts or worries, I just hope all the players can play and stay healthy.

Have you decided on the starting goalkeeper?

Previously, we analyzed the 10 candidates for the best goalkeeper award, and three of them were Spanish—all three participated in the World Cup, which is unprecedented. Any one of them deserves to win the award. No matter who we choose to start, we are very confident. All three are among the top five goalkeepers in the world. Unai Simón was the best goalkeeper in the World Cup; he broke all records. Perhaps he should continue to start. The other two are also superb goalkeepers.

What do you think about Barcelona not holding a tribute ceremony for their 8 World Cup-winning members?

I regret it, because such recognition is rare. But wherever they go, they will be recognized. If you don't get this recognition at home, other places will recognize you.

Would you feel it's unfair if the 2030 World Cup final is not held in Spain? Are you worried about political interference?

All I can control is my opinion. The final should be in Spain for many reasons. It's still early, and I believe FIFA will evaluate Spain's advantages, such as infrastructure and stadiums. Right now, I have no doubt that the final should be held in Spain.

Fermín and Hüjsmoller return to the squad.

I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge their efforts to be selected for the national team; they have contributed greatly. This is a very excellent and humane team, and both Dean (Hüjsmoller) and Fermín, who unfortunately suffered injuries, can experience all that I'm saying.

Do you think the team is capable of winning the European Championship again after winning the Euros and the World Cup?

Winning is difficult; there are far more losses than wins. To replicate success, to win consecutive championships—we will strive to have the strength to contend for the championship. Now we are the target of everyone, but this is also extra motivation.

Have you noticed any changes in Hüjsmoller?

We feel he is in good form, so we selected him. The player whose form doesn't fluctuate is the one who performs best. Players should understand that competition makes people better. With their teammates, they must accept that at certain moments, others are in better form. We always seek to build the most competitive team, and Dean, like everyone else, must understand that he must always strive to improve himself, which he is doing now. It will be very beneficial for himself and his club. The competition is very intense now. In the World Cup, our center-backs were the best in the world. To push open the national team door, you have to work hard.

Was this the easiest squad to pick for you?

Every squad is difficult to choose; this time was no easier or harder than others. Our job is to improve every day.

Zubimendi is out of form at Arsenal. Does his inclusion in the national team mean special treatment from you?

I've said that if Rodri is the best defensive midfielder in the world, then Martín (Zubimendi) is the second best in that position. The other day he played right-back for Arsenal and performed excellently, where the competition is extremely fierce. I recognize him; he performs well every time he plays, and he never disappoints us.

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