In soccer, and in sports in general, success is a “double-edged sword.” On the one hand, there is recognition, the achievement of a goal, and glory. On the other hand, there is mental “complacency,” which leads to a gradual decline from the top.
In Luis de la Fuente’s Spain, nothing of the sort was evident. From 2024 onward, the “Roja” has known nothing but success. Winning the Euro, winning the World Cup, and now 43 consecutive games without a loss, with Colombia remaining the last team to defeat the Iberians in that friendly match in London.
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If nothing else, Luis de la Fuente’s team not only defies the “satiated champion” stereotype but also displays a rare consistency on the field. The impressive 4-4 record in the opening rounds of the Nations League—with two wins over Croatia, the comeback victory at Wembley against England, and the win over the Czech Republic— is not merely a string of positive results, but the product of a profound structural and psychological overhaul by the 65-year-old coach.
Essentially, Luis de la Fuente treated the success of winning the World Cup as a foundation for the future rather than an excuse for complacency. In these four Nations League matches, the Spanish national team played with seriousness, discipline, plenty of intensity, and the same commitment to the game plan. At the same time, it has motivated players who were left off the World Cup roster—such as Dean Housen and Robin Le Normand—to prove themselves.
Special mention must also be made of Mikel Merino. The Arsenal midfielder played a pivotal role in the World Cup, scoring decisive goals in the final matches against Portugal and Belgium. He was just as decisive in the matches against the Czech Republic and Croatia during Matchdays 3 and 4 of the Nations League. First, he “sealed” the victory against the Czechs with a late goal, while against the Croatians, he single-handedly turned the match around with two goals of his own.
Spain didn’t just want to climb to the top of the world; it aims to stay there for a long time. And Luis de la Fuente is trying to instill in his players the art of never resting on their laurels. And indeed, the one thing they certainly aren’t is complacent.
