Luis De La Fuente: The architect of Spain's golden era

De La Fuente's journey to becoming Spain's most successful modern coach began long before he was appointed head coach of the senior national team. His success started with Spain's youth sides, where he developed many of the players who would later become stars for La Roja.

In 2015, he guided Spain to the UEFA European Under-19 Championship, defeating Russia 2-0 in the final. The triumph showcased his ability to nurture young talent while implementing an attractive, possession-based style of football.

Spain beat Russia 2-0

Four years later, in 2019, De La Fuente added another major title by leading Spain to the UEFA European Under-21 Championship. Spain defeated Germany 2-1 in the final, with Fabián Ruiz and Dani Olmo on the scoresheet, confirming the country's dominance at youth level.

Spain beat Germany 2-1

His promotion to the senior national team in 2022 marked the beginning of a new golden generation. Less than a year later, Spain lifted the 2023 UEFA Nations League, beating Croatia 5-4 on penalties after a goalless draw in the final in Rotterdam. It was Spain's first senior international trophy in more than a decade and a clear sign that De La Fuente had restored the team's winning mentality.

Spain beat Croatia on penalities

The momentum continued in UEFA EURO 2024, where Spain produced one of the tournament's most impressive campaigns. After defeating hosts Germany 2-1 in the quarter-finals, overcoming France 2-1 in the semi-finals, and beating England 2-1 in the final, Spain claimed a record fourth European Championship title. The team won all seven matches at the tournament, underlining its dominance.

Spain beat England 2-1

De La Fuente's greatest achievement arrived in 2026, when he guided Spain to the FIFA World Cup title. Spain sealed the trophy with a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the final, capping off an outstanding tournament in which De La Fuente's side defeated some of world football's biggest nations. Their road to glory included wins over Portugal (1-0) in the Round of 16, Belgium (2-1) in the quarter-finals, France (2-0) in the semi-finals and Argentina (1-0)in the final.

The Spanish champions finished the tournament in dominant fashion, conceding just one goal throughout the knockout stages while displaying tactical discipline, attacking quality and defensive solidity under De La Fuente.

Spain beat Argentine 1-0 to win World cup 2026

Beyond the silverware, De La Fuente's influence has been felt in the way Spain plays. He successfully blended experienced players with a new generation of talented youngsters, creating a balanced team known for technical quality, tactical discipline and attacking football. His trust in emerging stars and commitment to Spain's football philosophy have made La Roja one of the most entertaining teams in international football.

Since taking over the senior national team in 2022, De La Fuente has suffered only two defeats with also 38 winning streak, an outstanding record that reflects his tactical intelligence, consistency and ability to deliver results on football's biggest stages.

From conquering Europe with Spain's youth teams to lifting the UEFA Nations League, the European Championship and the FIFA World Cup with the senior side, Luis De La Fuente has built an extraordinary legacy. His success across every level of Spanish football has established him as one of the country's greatest coaches, and his achievements will be remembered as one of the most remarkable eras in Spain's football history.

Jacques Roger NSHIMIYIMANA