New Spain coach De La Fuente defends appointment

New Spain coach Luis de la Fuente defended his appointment after criticism he lacked experience at the top level, during his presentation.

The 61-year-old, appointed until after Euro 2024, has coached Spain's youth teams since 2013, most recently the U23 side.

De la Fuente replaced Luis Enrique after the former Barcelona coach was sacked following Spain's shock World Cup last 16 defeat by Morocco.

"I was a professional player for 15 years," De la Fuente said.

"I have coached 16 players who were in the Spain squad at the World Cup.

"If there is anyone in Spain who knows the present and the future of Spanish football, it's me."

De la Fuente was a left-back for Athletic Bilbao in the 1980s and 90s, winning two La Liga titles and the Copa del Rey with the Basque team.

He also played for Sevilla and Alaves before starting his coaching career.

The new Spain coach earned silver with the national side at the 2020 Olympics, losing in extra-time to Brazil in the gold medal match.

"All players in condition are liable to be called up," said De la Fuente.

Spain dominated possession in the World Cup, attempting over 1,000 passes against Morocco, but only forged one shot on target over 120 minutes and were eliminated on penalties.

"There is one thing that is not negotiable, one idea and one model," added De la Fuente.

"It adapts to any system, it's not incompatible. I will try to incorporate nuances to improve.

"We will try to grow and keep improving, interpreting the changes in the game.