‘We have a wonderful future’ – De la Fuente delighted by Spain’s youngsters

Luis de la Fuente has praised Spain's youngsters after they shone in Monday's dramatic late win over Switzerland in the Nations League.

Bryan Zaragoza sealed the 3-2 victory with an injury time penalty after the visitors twice came from behind to level following Yeremy Pino and Bryan Gil's Tenerife goals.

Spain dominated the entire match with 21 shots, 10 of which were on target, as they created 3.21 expected goals (xG) and completed an unbeaten group stage.

Excluding friendlies, the European champions are undefeated in their 13 matches in 2024 in all competitions (W12 D1), setting the record for their most competitive matches without defeat in a single year, as well as their most wins.

La Roja will be one of the seeded teams in the Nations League quarter-finals in March after topping Group A4, and De la Fuente was particularly proud of how the next generation of players have performed in 2024.

“We are very happy. It is such football and we know the high level and equality that exists. We have to appreciate so many victories and especially the victory over a great team like Switzerland,” De la Fuente said.

“It used to be a great team too. The difference is that now we win, and we win everything. We are used to competing for the best and achieving great results. Without thinking about the past.

“I don't worry about it. I have always said that we have a wonderful present and a wonderful future, thanks to the great footballers there are in Spain. They are the best in the world.”

“They are very good. They are the best players. We know what they give, and we have to make sure they feel comfortable to show their football. The message is getting across quickly and we are privileged to have these players to have.”