Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente is approaching the World Cup with calm confidence after years of carefully shaping a squad that is now considered among the tournament favourites.

The 64-year-old, known for his composed and approachable manner, has overseen Spain’s rise to become European champions and believes the foundation of that success goes beyond tactics or individual brilliance.

Speaking to Reuters before departing for North America, De la Fuente said the team’s strength stems from a shared sense of unity and belonging.

“Some time ago, we began to focus on a word that gave us security, confidence and strength — ‘family’. We want the Spanish national team to be a family,” he said.

According to De la Fuente, that philosophy is embraced throughout the squad and staff, helping create a positive environment and strong sense of trust.

“From the first player to the last, we all work with that idea in mind. It gives me peace of mind and confidence, knowing I am surrounded by good people and working towards the same goal,” he added.

De la Fuente’s emphasis on family has become the foundation of a Spain squad united not only by talent but also by years of shared experiences, from youth tournaments and setbacks to major triumphs and lasting trust.

The Spain coach’s journey to the top has been anything but conventional. A former full-back who made his name with Athletic Bilbao, De la Fuente spent much of his coaching career away from the spotlight of club football, dedicating more than a decade to developing players within Spain’s youth setup.

When he was appointed Spain manager more than three years ago, some sections of the media questioned the decision, viewing him as a low-profile federation figure rather than a high-profile appointment.

Since then, De la Fuente has silenced critics through results, guiding Spain to the 2023 Nations League title and the 2024 European Championship before leading the team into the World Cup as one of the tournament favourites.

A practising Catholic, De la Fuente said he has never been interested in proving people wrong or revisiting past criticism.

“Time proves you right and proves you wrong. Time puts everyone in their place. I knew what I had to do,” he said.

Rather than holding grudges, he believes people should reflect on their own actions and opinions. Despite his success, De la Fuente insists little has changed in his daily life.

“I’m still the same person,” he said. “I go to the same places, visit the same restaurants and cafes, and walk the streets just as I always have. My life hasn’t changed.”

One of De la Fuente’s greatest strengths has been the deep relationships he has built with many of Spain’s players over the years. What was once viewed by some as a lack of experience at the highest level has instead become a major asset, as he progressed through Spain’s youth ranks alongside much of the current squad.

Players such as Mikel Merino, Mikel Oyarzabal, Dani Olmo and Fabián Ruiz all worked under De la Fuente during their youth careers before helping Spain achieve success at senior level.

Merino’s connection with the coach dates back even further. He was part of Spain’s victorious Under-19 European Championship side in 2015 alongside Rodri and Unai Simón. De la Fuente has also guided players such as Pedri, Martín Zubimendi and Marc Cucurella during their rise through the national-team setup.

According to De la Fuente, these long-standing relationships create a bond that extends beyond football.

“Our relationship goes beyond the purely professional,” he said.

Speaking about Rodri, he added: “We’ve known each other for more than 10 years and have shared many experiences since 2015. Because of that, I’m sure I’ve been able to communicate with these players in a way few other coaches could.”

De la Fuente believes that trust gives Spain a significant advantage. He says his players know his guidance comes from honesty, integrity and a genuine desire to help them succeed.

“When players trust what you’re saying and believe in your message, you’ve already achieved a great deal,” he explained. “The next step is to put your talent at the service of the team and your teammates.”

Spain will begin their World Cup campaign in Group H, where they face debutants Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay as they pursue a second World Cup crown following their triumph in 2010.