Liga Profesional Argentina · Midfielder · #0 · Argentina · 37 yrs
F. De La Fuente is a midfielder. F. De La Fuente is a Argentine international, 37 years old, midfielder. F. De La Fuente was born in Sierra Grande, Argentina on 1986-03-26. F. De La Fuente's Sportra profile tracks season statistics across Liga Profesional Argentina, Primera Nacional, Torneo Federal A. F. De La Fuente's page brings together career clubs, trophies, injury history, multi-competition stats, and related news headlines. On Sportra you can explore F. De La Fuente season statistics, transfer history, trophies, injury updates, and related news across every competition tracked in the profile.
Midfielder · #0
Marc Cucurella promised to get a tattoo of Luis de la Fuente if Spain won the World Cup, a pledge he has now honoured. The post ‘Promise kept’ – Cucurella gets De la Fuente tattoo after Spain’s World Cup win appeared first on SoccerNews.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente believes there was one defining element behind his team's remarkable triumph, and it ultimately carried the national team through one of the toughest knockout runs in World Cup history. Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe all stood in Spain’s path during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, yet none of the global superstars could prevent Luis de la Fuente’s side from lifting the trophy. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente believes there was one defining element behind his team’s remarkable triumph, and it ultimately carried the national team through one of the toughest knockout runs in World Cup history. The Spanish national team finished an unforgettable tournament by defeating defending champion Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the World Cup final, sealing its second men’s World Cup title. Along the way, the champion overcame Portugal, France, and Argentina, eliminating teams led by three of soccer’s biggest icons while extending an extraordinary unbeaten run. However, La Roja’s route to the title was anything but straightforward. The knockout stage began with a 1-0 victory over Portugal, ending Cristiano Ronaldo’s hopes of another World Cup triumph. After overcoming Belgium in the quarterfinals, La Roja then defeated Kylian Mbappe’s France 2-0 before edging Lionel Messi’s Argentina in a tense final decided by Ferran Torres’ extra-time strike. The journey highlighted the quality of Spain’s performances rather than any reliance on individual brilliance. While every opponent featured world-class talent, Spain consistently controlled matches through organization, discipline, and possession. Luis de la Fuente explains Spain’s greatest strength After the tournament, De la Fuente revealed what he believed separated Spain from every other contender. Instead of focusing on individual stars, the coach pointed to the collective identity of his squad. “We said we were facing Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal and Kylian Mbappé’s France, and we were going to play against Lionel Messi’s Argentina,” De la Fuente explained. “But they were facing a team of 26 players.” That, according to the Spain manager, became the decisive difference throughout the competition. Unity over individual brilliance De la Fuente expanded on his message by comparing his squad’s mentality to one of history’s most famous stories. “And recalling that famous saying about the 300 Spartans, we Spaniards are the 26,” he said. “Because our true strength wasn’t in one individual, but in the unity of the group. And that’s what gives us great strength.” His comments reflected the identity Spain built during the tournament. Rather than depending on a single superstar, every member of the squad contributed, whether as a starter or from the bench.
Spain won the World Cup for the second time after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final, and the South American side did not react well. The post De la Fuente slams Argentina’s ‘intolerable’ World Cup final behaviour appeared first on SoccerNews.
Spain head coach hits out at ‘acts of aggression’Fifa investigation into incident yet to result in sanctionsSpain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, has hit out at the “intolerable, unacceptable” behaviour of Argentina players in the immediate aftermath of Sunday’s World Cup final.At the forefront were Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes, who attacked Rodri and Eric García respectively at New York New Jersey Stadium as Spain’s players celebrated winning the World Cup for a second time in the country’s history. Paredes also confronted Spain’s Gavi. Continue reading...
Despite becoming a 2026 World Cup winner, Lamine Yamal has received a lot of criticism for his performances. In response, Robert Lewandowski has explained the reasons behind the inconsistent performances of the 19-year-old prodigy. After establishing as one of Barcelona’s best players, Lamine Yamal seemed to arrive at the 2026 World Cup ready to compete to be the tournament’s top scorer. While he shined collectively, he did not have his best tournament in front of goal. In response, Robert Lewandowski explained the reason behind the inconsistent performances of the 19-year-old star, highlighting a key aspect that has not been taken into account. “Honestly, no, we didn’t [see his best this tournament]. The best performance, the best Lamine for me, of course, wasn’t the last season, but two seasons ago… He came to the World Cup after injury and he didn’t play for like eight weeks so it’s tough if you don’t play eight weeks and you have to start playing in the World Cup, then you don’t have time for the training just from game to game,” Lewandowski said, via ESPN. After suffering a muscle tear, Lamine Yamal arrived at the 2026 World Cup far from fully fit. In fact, head coach Luis de la Fuente did not use him in the opening match, as he missed the game against Cape Verde. As the tournament progressed, he gradually regained his fluency in play. However, he was unable to impose his goalscoring ability. Robert Lewandowski’s words are not a direct criticism of Lamine. Instead, the veteran striker points to the lack of continuity after the injury as the main cause. Amid the criticism, the 19-year-old star remained irreplaceable at the 2026 World Cup, playing a key role in the team’s collective play. In addition, teammates such as Unai Simón and Rodri Hernández praised his work on the field. Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain celebrates scoring a goal. Lamine Yamal’s impact goes beyond the scoring side Throughout his career, Lamine Yamal has surprised the soccer world with his goalscoring ability. As a fast, skillful winger, he has been the centerpiece of Barcelona over the last two seasons. By failing to translate that impact to Spain, he is being heavily criticized by the fans. However, the 19-year-old star has shown that his impact goes far beyond the goalscoring aspect. As the team’s most decisive player on the ball, both Spain and Barcelona build their play around him. Therefore, he often attracts defenders and creates space for his teammates. In addition, he has excelled in the creative aspect, delivering key passes that allow his teammates to shine. Whether he scores or not, he always contributes collectively, making him the most dangerous player with or without the ball. At just 19 years old, Lamine Yamal still has many things to improve in his professional career. Not only will enhancing his goalscoring ability be key, but also managing his runs to preserve his physical condition. As a key player for both Spain and Barcelona, he is expected to be the focal point of UEFA Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup, silencing the critics of his performances at the international level.
Spain boss Luis de la Fuente gave his take on the postgame brawl between his players and Argentina following the 2026 World Cup final, describing the situation as "intolerable" and "inadmissible." The 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina ended in heavy controversy, with players from both sides sparking a wild postgame melee following the final whistle. Addressing the chaotic scene, Spanish head coach Luis de la Fuente offered a sharp rebuke, calling the altercations “intolerable” and “inadmissible.” As referee Slavko Vincic blew his whistle to finalize Spain‘s 1-0 extra-time victory, a late shove from Nahuel Molina into Rodri’s midsection ignited a heated confrontation between the two benches. Midfielder Leandro Paredes emerged as a central figure in the melee after physical clashes with both Eric García and Gavi, while Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also captured on video shoving Spanish midfielder Dani Olmo. Speaking to TVE after reviewing footage of the brawl, De la Fuente offered a candid assessment of the altercations: “It is intolerable, inadmissible, and cannot be allowed. We must highlight our behavior in the face of aggressions and provocations. Believe me, at the time of those events I didn’t realize it because I was celebrating with other people, hugging colleagues. I didn’t notice.“ The Spanish manager maintained his respect for the opposition while firmly condemning their postgame behavior. “But of course, in any case, that is intolerable, inadmissible, and cannot be allowed. Players of that caliber, whom I have praised every day prior and continue to do so because they are great footballers. They have a magnificent manager who I’m sure felt just as bad as we did upon seeing those reactions. That, I insist, is not tolerable,” he added. Leandro Paredes #5 of Argentina and Eric Garcia #4 of Spain have words after the World Cup 2026 Final. De la Fuente concluded by praising his own squad’s restraint under pressure, crediting his players for preventing the situation from devolving further. “I think we must highlight our behavior in the face of those types of aggressions, of provocations. Our players always maintained proper conduct, the attitude of good sportsmen and great footballers,” he noted. Argentina players await potential FIFA disciplinary action FIFA has since issued an official statement confirming that its Disciplinary Committee has opened an investigation into potential breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code regarding the postgame altercations. At present, world soccer’s governing body has yet to announce formal suspensions or financial penalties for any of the Argentina players or coaching staff involved. With the next FIFA international window scheduled for September, officials have a two-month runway to hand down individual or team-wide disciplinary measures.
Spain managed to end their 16-year drought by winning the 2026 World Cup title. After this victory, head coach Luis de la Fuente praised Ferran Torres’ impact in the tournament, surprisingly comparing him to Álvaro Morata. Spain have become as the best national team in the world by winning the 2026 World Cup title. To achieve this, Ferran Torres emerged as the hero, scoring the winning goal against Argentina after coming off the bench. After this, he managed to silence any doubts surrounding him. Because of this, head coach Luis de la Fuente praised his great impact on the tournament, surprisingly comparing him to Álvaro Morata. “I try to be fair when I see criticism with bad intentions. Life then gives you opportunities, which is why I am especially happy for Ferran. His story reminds me of Morata’s. Faced with injustice, he has said: here I am… When Ferran scored, I felt the closest thing to happiness; and when I lifted the Cup, I felt happy, satisfied, and proud,” Luis de la Fuente revealed, via Diario AS. Throughout the 2026 World Cup, Mikel Oyarzabal established as the starting striker, scoring five goals. After this, the criticism toward Ferran Torres became very strong, as he had failed to score in the tournament. However, Luis de la Fuente highlights something key by comparing him to Morata: He is very underrated, as his impact on the field always goes beyond the goalscoring aspect. Like Morata, Ferran is a striker who helps bring out the best version of his teammates. Without being prodigies in the goalscoring aspect, they are capable of dropping into a creative role and even playing on the wings. As a result, their teammates usually receive more space to score. Although the 33-year-old striker has scored 37 goals for the national team, the 26-year-old star has 25 and could look to surpass him in the coming years. Ferran Torres of Spain scores against Argentina. Spain captain Rodri Hernandez also praises Ferran Torres Amid a style of soccer in which Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland shine in the goalscoring aspect, a striker profile like Ferran Torres is viewed quite unfairly. Although he was not a starter at the 2026 World Cup, he scored the goal that ended Spain’s drought, leading them to their second title in the tournament. Because of this, national team captain Rodri Hernández decided to praise the 26-year-old striker. “Today I would like to remember a person (Introducing Ferran) who is very important to this group, very special to me. Perhaps a player who has been unfairly criticized many times… Today he is part of Spanish soccer history,” Rodri said during the celebrations following Spain’s 2026 World Cup title. With those remarks in mind, Ferran is expected to remain part of the project ahead of the 2028 UEFA Euro as a key figure in the dressing room. Where does Ferran Torres rank on Spain’s all-time scoring list? Even though Ferran Torres does not stand out as a prolific goalscorer, he already has 25 goals for Spain, which is a very respectable tally. However, he still is not among the national team’s top five all-time goalscorers. Not only is Álvaro Morata ahead of him, but also David Villa, among other historic players. NameGoals scored1. David Villa592. Raul Gonzalez443. Fernando Torres384. Álvaro Morata37 5. David Silva356. Mikel Oyarzabal307. Fernando Hierro298. Fernando Morientes279. Emilio Butragueño2610. Ferran Torres25
After regaining his starting spot with Spain, Fabián Ruiz became a central figure in the country's 2026 World Cup triumph. Despite being at one of the best moments of his career, the PSG midfielder revealed his desire to return to Real Betis soon, making his future clear. Spain were crowned the 2026 World Cup winner, ending a 16-year title drought. Even though Pedri emerged as the starter, head coach Luis de la Fuente decided to return to Fabián Ruiz, who ended up being essential in the final against Argentina. Despite the 30-year-old midfielder seemingly being at the best moment of his career with La Roja and PSG, he revealed his desire to return to Real Betis. Amid his tribute as a 2026 World Cup winner, Fabián Ruiz was asked whether he would consider returning to Real Betis. He responded bluntly: “The truth is yes. I’ve always said it. I never hide it. I want to come back. It gets closer every time. I’m a Betis fan, and one day I hope to return to Betis,” he said, according to Marca. Nonetheless, his comeback may not be an easy path due to his renewal status. Fabián Ruiz remains a central figure at PSG, serving as an undisputed starter under head coach Luis Enrique. For that reason, he has agreed to a contract extension through 2029, with an option for an additional year, according to Fabrizio Romano. While the 30-year-old midfielder has hinted at a return to Real Betis, the French side may not let him leave easily complicating matters in the near future. As one of the most experienced players for PSG and Spain, Fabián Ruiz has established among the best players in the world. During the 2025-26 season, he won absolutely everything, making him a potential Ballon d’Or candidate, something he made clear would be a great honor for him. In addition, he reached 50 unbeaten matches with La Roja, marking a historic milestone that demonstrates his importance to the team. Fabian Ruiz of Spain runs to celebrate. Fabian Ruiz is one of the most well-rounded players at PSG and Spain Throughout the last few years, Fabián Ruiz has been one of the most underrated players in Europe. At PSG, Vitinha and João Neves steal all the spotlight, while Pedri does the same with Spain. However, he has managed to carve out a unique place in both squads, becoming a cornerstone of every title they have won. His importance comes down to one key aspect: He is one of the most complete players in his position. Despite having world-class competition, Fabián has earned the trust of all his coaches by excelling in both defense and attack. Thanks to his tactical intelligence and physical presence, he stands out as one of the most solid central midfielders defensively, playing a key role in balancing the lineup. In addition, he offers an incredible creative side, controlling the tempo and distributing the play. Amid the very young squads at PSG and Spain, Fabián Ruiz has emerged as one of the leaders of both teams. Although he is only 30 years old, he is one of the most experienced players, making him a clear leader in the dressing room and an example on the pitch. Despite this, his career does not usually receive much spotlight, making him one of the most underrated players in the world.
After a 16-year drought, Spain was crowned champion of the 2026 World Cup, defeating Argentina. As a result, Álex Baena joined a select list of players to win three titles, alongside Lionel Messi and Ángel Di María. Despite not entering the 2026 World Cup with many chances of being a starter, Álex Baena managed to convince Luis de la Fuente, becoming an undisputed starter in every match. He was essential to Spain‘s collective play, creating space for Marc Cucurella and forming a strong partnership with Mikel Oyarzabal. After winning the anticipated title, he joined a select list of winners alongside Lionel Messi and Ángel Di María. After winning the 2026 World Cup, Álex Baena has joined Lionel Messi and Ángel Di María as the only players to have won a continental competition—either the UEFA European Championship or the Copa América—an Olympic Games gold medal, and the World Cup. Having played a central role in all three titles, he has written his name into soccer history. Álex Baena has established as one of the best wingers of the 2026 World Cup. While he scored just one goal and provided one assist, he was essential to Spain’s collective success. As a creative winger, his role on the pitch is quite similar to that of Ángel Di María. He won the 2024 Olympic gold medal as a starter, as well as the 2024 UEFA Euro, completing a remarkable career that still has plenty of room for growth. Lionel Messi and Ángel Di María have become two of the greatest players in Argentina’s history, something Álex Baena has yet to achieve. Both legends shared the same squad in 2008, when they won the Olympic Games gold medal. In addition, they were also key figures in Argentina’s two Copa América titles and the World Cup, leading a golden generation that dominated for several years. Alex Baena celebrates a goal for Spain. Alex Baena’s next challenge is winning over Atlético Madrid Despite emerging as one of Spain’s best players, Álex Baena did not have a good season at Atlético Madrid. After paying €42 million to Villarreal, he arrived as an undisputed starter for head coach Diego Simeone. However, he rotated frequently with Ademola Lookman and Thiago Almada, finishing with just two goals and three assists in 46 matches. After becoming a starter at the 2026 World Cup, Álex Baena has the best opportunity to establish at Atlético Madrid. Following the departure of Antoine Griezmann and the uncertainty surrounding Julián Álvarez, the 25-year-old star would have every chance to become a cornerstone of the team. To achieve this, he would need to improve his attacking output, looking to match his greater impact in the creative phase. With Griezmann’s departure still not fully addressed, head coach Diego Simeone could deploy Baena as his new second striker. Thanks to his tactical intelligence and creative contribution, he would enhance the goalscoring output of Alexander Sørloth or Julián Álvarez. However, he must maintain his defensive contribution, something that is essential to succeeding at both Atlético Madrid and Spain.
Throughout the 2026 World Cup, Aymeric Laporte established as one of the tournament's best defenders, becoming an undisputed starter for Spain. As a result, Barcelona are reportedly considering a €15 million move for the 32-year-old defender. After leaving Al Nassr unexpectedly in 2025, Aymeric Laporte seemed almost destined to gradually decline in his level of play. However, he rediscovered his form at Athletic Club, allowing him to arrive at the 2026 World Cup as a starter. After establishing as one of the best defenders, the 32-year-old has attracted Barcelona’s attention, as they are reportedly open to a €15 million move. Head coach Luis de la Fuente made Aymeric Laporte his undisputed starter in defense. Despite coming off a fairly inconsistent season, he formed one of the best defensive partnerships alongside Pau Cubarsí. He played 729 minutes across eight matches, helping Spain finish as the team with the fewest goals conceded. After this outstanding level, Barcelona are reportedly pursuing his signing this summer. According to Carlos Monfort, via Diario Sport, Barcelona are determined to contact Aymeric Laporte’s camp in the coming days. As one of the best left-sided defenders, they consider the 32-year-old star to be a world-class player. Even though the relationship between Athletic Club and the Blaugrana is not the best, the defender has a €15 million release clause, making him quite affordable. Aymeric Laporte could be the ideal solution to Barcelona’s defensive inconsistencies. Having already developed a good understanding with Pau Cubarsí, this partnership could provide the team with the stability it had with Iñigo Martínez. As a 32-year-old veteran, he would not block Gerard Martín’s development; instead, he would be key to helping him improve his level. Gonzalo Montiel #4 of Argentina competes for the ball against Aymeric Laporte #14 of Spain. Aymeric Laporte potential deal could force Barcelona to offload stars Ahead of the 2026-27 season, Barcelona reportedly have three untouchable defenders: Pau Cubarsí, Eric García, and Gerard Martín. However, head coach Hansi Flick would be open to bringing in Aymeric Laporte, as he fulfills the role of a veteran, offers quality in building out from the back. If they secure his arrival, the Blaugrana could need to part ways with some stars in their defensive line. Both Andreas Christensen and Ronald Araújo could be transferred if Laporte’s arrival is completed. Although neither of them wants to leave, they could be relegated to having little or no playing time, making a departure a real possibility. With the departure of both defenders, Barcelona could reduce their defensive unit to just four players, looking to give all of them significant playing time during the season. Aymeric Laporte’s arrival would not be directly linked to the departures of Araújo and Christensen. Instead, the signing of the 32-year-old star could push both defenders to leave the club if they want regular playing time. However, Barcelona have not yet managed to complete the signing of the 2026 World Cup winner, so these are still only speculations.
The 2026 World Cup seems to have completely reshaped the Ballon d'Or race. Following the tournament, Harry Kane has taken the lead at the top of the rankings, while Lamine Yamal has moved up. Surprisingly, Lionel Messi has re-entered the race. After completing an outstanding season, several PSG stars such as Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Vitinha seemed to be gaining ground as Ballon d’Or contenders. However, the result of the 2026 World Cup seems to have completely transformed the picture. After clearly shining, Harry Kane seems to take the lead in the race, while Lamine Yamal has gained ground. In addition, Lionel Messi may return to the picture. Paris Saint-Germain won everything again during the 2025-26 season, making its stars candidates to win the Ballon d’Or. However, France and Portugal disappointed, not even reaching the tournament final. Although Ousmane Dembélé left his mark with his goalscoring, he seems to be falling out of the race after failing to lead his national team to the final. Instead, Harry Kane could take the lead in the rankings. Harry Kane has completed a truly outstanding season. At Bayern Munich, he managed to score 61 goals and provide seven assists, winning three domestic titles. In addition, he led his team to the UEFA Champions League semifinals. Carrying that form into the 2026 World Cup, he led his national team to a third-place finish, scoring six goals and providing one assist. With this in mind, he is the leader for the 2026 Ballon d’Or, as per Bleacher Report. Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi set for 2026 Ballon d’Or podium Despite not shining in the scoring side, Lamine Yamal stood out as one of Spain’s best players. Through his dribbling and passing, he helped end his national team’s 16-year trophy drought. Luis de la Fuente made him the central figure of the attack. In addition, he is coming off a solid season with Barcelona, scoring 24 goals and providing 18 assists. Because of this, he is expected to be in the 2026 Ballon d’Or podium. Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain and Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina. Lionel Messi surprised everyone with his performances at the World Cup. Despite being 39 years old, he was an undisputed starter, scoring eight goals and providing four assists. Following his outstanding performances with Argentina and Inter Miami, he is tipped to return to the Ballon d’Or podium, according to several outlets such as Bleacher Report, and others. However, he does not emerge as the leading candidate to win the trophy. Updated 2026 Ballon d’Or top 5 ranking After the World Cup concluded, the 2025-26 season came to an end, leaving very little time to determine the Ballon d’Or winner. According to Bleacher Report, Harry Kane emerges as the leading favorite after shining in every competition he has played in. While Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi are expected to complete the podium, there are two other players who could gain more importance in the coming days. Name1.Harry Kane (England and Bayern Munich)2.Lamine Yamal (Spain and FC Barcelona)3. Lionel Messi (Argentina and Inter Miami)4.Rodri Hernandez (Spain and Manchester City)5.Kylian Mbappé (France and Real Madrid)
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