Luis de la Fuente took over after Spain’s round of 16 match at the 2022 World Cup, replacing Luis Enrique, and was officially appointed in December 2022.
The 64-year-old had already spent several years in the Spanish national team before moving to the senior team. He led Spain to the UEFA European Under-19 Championship title in 2015, the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in 2019 and Olympic silver in Tokyo 2020.
At senior level, De la Fuente has overseen one of Spain’s strongest recent phases. Under him, Spain won the 2022/23 UEFA Nations League and the 2024 European Championship, where they defeated England in the final. Spain also reached the 2025 Nations League final before losing to Portugal on penalties.
Luis de la Fuente’s record as a coach
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Matches: 238
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Wins: 132
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Draws: 55
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Losses: 51
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Win percentage: 55.5
Luis de la Fuente’s record as Spain coach
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Matches: 41
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Wins: 32
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Draws: 6
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Losses: 3
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Win percentage: 78.0
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Goals scored: 108
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Goals conceded: 34
What did Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente say before the match between Spain and Cape Verde?
De la Fuente said Spain will not take Cape Verde lightly in the Group H opener. The Spanish coach praised the World Cup debutant’s organization and physical qualities and said Cape Verde is «well structured» and has fast, powerful players.
About Lamine Yamal, De la Fuente said that the winger is fit and training well, but will not start the match. He said Yamal, along with Nico Williams and Victor Munoz, are available but Spain will decide how to use them depending on how the match develops.
How did Spain qualify for the 2026 World Cup under Luis de la Fuente?
Spain qualified directly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as winners of UEFA Qualifying Group E.
De la Fuente’s team finished undefeated in the group with 16 points, ahead of Turkey, Georgia and Bulgaria. Spain scored 21 goals and only conceded two during the qualifying campaign.
Published on June 15, 2026
