Luis de la Fuente claims Spain’s best level is still yet to come despite shrugging off claims that his side are clear favourites for next year’s World Cup.<\/p>\n
Spain are being tipped as favourites to win the tournament, but they have not yet officially qualified for it. However, a 4-0 win over Georgia last time out all but secured their spot.<\/p>\n
If Spain avoid defeat against Turkiye, they will top the group, but the visitors still have a slim chance of qualifying, albeit, they would need to secure a 7-0 win against a team yet to concede a goal in the group.<\/p>\n
Excluding friendlies, Spain are unbeaten in their last 30 games in all competitions (W25 D5). This is their best-ever run in competitive matches, surpassing a 29-game unbeaten streak between June 2010 and June 2013.<\/p>\n
De la Fuente urged caution over putting too much pressure on Spain, but he is confident his players still have another level to reach despite their recent form.<\/p>\n
“It’s a case of being among the favourites. Success is having chances to fight to win,” he said in a press conference.<\/p>\n
“There’s a very fine line between winning and losing. There’s no such thing as a clear favourite in a World Cup. Previously, football focused on other teams, but now Spain is among the favourites.<\/p>\n
“We approach this match with a great sense of responsibility. For prestige. To showcase what we have achieved. We want to remain number one in the world.<\/p>\n
“Mark my words, the best is yet to come. These players? They are addicted to winning.”<\/p>\n
Spain are overwhelming favourites to finish Group E with a perfect record, with the Opta supercomputer giving them a 73.7% chance of beating Turkiye.<\/p>\n
Despite their comfortable position at the top of the table, De la Fuente confirmed he has no plans to heavily rotate his side so they can continue to build momentum.<\/p>\n
“The secret is excellent work in football in general. In the top clubs and in the federation, there is a specific idea and model of play. Training, investment and belief in an idea,” he added.<\/p>\n
“There will be no gifts. Here, people have to earn their place. Everyone wants to play, and everyone has earned it and deserves it.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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