Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has fiercely defended Lamine Yamal after the Barcelona star was accused of receiving preferential treatment for a delayed arrival at the national team camp. The coach slammed the "lies" surrounding the teenager's absence from the upcoming clash against Czechia due to a knee issue.
Emile Heskey, the former Liverpool and England striker, believes that Trent Alexander-Arnold's move to Bayern Munich could represent a good step in his career, given the decline in his appearances with Real Madrid, pointing out that the attacking qualities possessed by the English full-back outweigh, in his view, the criticism directed at his defensive abilities.
Czechia head coach Santi Denia has admitted that the absence of Lamine Yamal from the Spanish national team is a significant blow for football supporters. The former Spain youth coach faces his home nation in a crucial Nations League fixture while dealing with the pressure of a difficult group stage campaign.
Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi has described sharing a national team dressing room with Rodri as an absolute blessing. Reflecting on his substitute appearance in the 2026 World Cup final, Zubimendi expressed immense pride in contributing to La Roja’s golden era.
Spain and Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon has heaped praise on Real Madrid star Thibaut Courtois. The Yashin Trophy winner described Courtois as a phenomenal professional who deserves to be regarded as the finest goalkeeper of the 21st century.