Helicopter ride Spain's only scare before World Cup final, jokes De la Fuente

Spain's manager, Luis de la Fuente, appeared remarkably relaxed ahead of the World Cup final against Argentina, humorously citing only a helicopter ride as a cause for nervousness. "I'm quite nervous because we'll be returning by helicopter," he told reporters with a laugh, contrasting it with his overall calm demeanor. De la Fuente emphasized his team's readiness to embrace the high-stakes match rather than be intimidated by its magnitude.

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I'm quite nervous because we'll be returning by helicopter. We came by helicopter, and we have to fly back once the press conference is over, and that really makes me nervous.

De la Fuente views reaching the final as a privilege, regardless of the outcome. "For me, the important thing is to be in a position to win, to reach a final," he stated, expressing happiness even with the prospect of reaching a final annually and losing. He affirmed that Spain would play to their strengths and qualities while remaining vigilant against their "truly formidable" opponents.

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Nothing else, though – I'm absolutely calm. We're lucky to be in these circumstances, in this situation.

He anticipates a final characterized by technical skill rather than psychological gamesmanship, noting the similarities in style and spirit between Spain and Argentina. "I think it's going to be a cracking match," he predicted, believing that "brilliance, talent and good football will prevail over any other factor."

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For me, the important thing is to be in a position to win, to reach a final.

Addressing the inevitable focus on Lionel Messi, De la Fuente recounted a past experience from his youth coaching days where a man-to-man marking strategy against a young Messi proved ineffective. "What does this mean? That we're going to mark him man-to-man? No. But that we're going to keep a very close eye on him? Yes," he clarified, indicating a more collective defensive strategy. He also cautioned against burdening young Spanish talent Lamine Yamal with comparisons to Messi, emphasizing the Argentine's unique status.

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We're going to enjoy that moment using our strengths and our qualities, whilst keeping our opponents – who are a truly formidable side – in check.