Luis de la Fuente is confident that another European Championship title is within Spain’s grasp, yet he remains cautious of England’s threat as they prepare for Sunday’s final in Berlin.
Both teams clinched 2-1 victories in the semi-finals, but La Roja and the Three Lions have taken vastly different routes to the Euro 2024 showpiece.
Spain’s impressive journey, overcoming formidable opponents such as Croatia, Italy, Germany and France, positions them as favourites to lift the trophy this weekend. However, De la Fuente acknowledges the unpredictability that a final brings, remaining mindful of the challenges ahead.
“Maybe Spain have offered a better version so far at the finals [than England], but that won’t have any influence on a one-off game,” the 63-year-old told reporters.
“England have quality players that can appear at any moment. We are up against a really powerful side full of experience, not just in terms of the national team, but at club level as well. It’s going to be tough.
“Before starting the tournament, England and France would have been favourites, as well as Germany for the fact they were playing at home.
“We have had the chance to keep overcoming those games [against the favourites] and now we have another huge match. But we’re looking forward to this one. We want to keep growing. This group of players are going to keep fighting to try and win the trophy.”
De la Fuente will have a wealth of options at his disposal for Sunday’s showdown, with reports suggesting Alvaro Morata will spearhead the attack. Additionally, Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand are set to return from suspension, boosting Spain’s defensive lineup.
Despite their standout performances earlier this week, it appears unlikely that Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer will earn starting spots for England. However, Luke Shaw could potentially begin the match, and fans are hopeful he can replicate his impressive performance from the previous final in 2021.
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