La Volpe and Puyol clash over Spain's football legacy: 'They didn't exist before 2010'

Football legends Ricardo La Volpe and Carles Puyol clashed over the historical standing of the Spanish national team, with the former Argentine player and coach asserting that Spain's footballing relevance only began with their 2010 World Cup victory.

During a television debate ahead of a match between Argentina and Switzerland, La Volpe stated that Spain "didn't exist" before their 2010 triumph in South Africa. He questioned their legacy, pointing to a lack of subsequent World Cup success in 2014, 2018, and 2022, and challenged the origin of the 4-3-3 formation, attributing it to Arrigo Sacchi in the 1980s.

Puyol countered by referencing Spain's 2008 Eurocup win under Luis Aragonés, stating, "We won in 2008." La Volpe, however, pressed his point, focusing on World Cup achievements and questioning the number of titles Spain held.

The discussion briefly shifted to Sergio Busquets, with Juan Pablo Sorín attempting to mediate. Puyol praised Busquets's crucial role in the Spanish team, highlighting his ability to provide balance and facilitate play. He recounted how Busquets's presence simplified matches for him and invited La Volpe to consult Pep Guardiola for further insight. La Volpe, however, remained combative, continuing his critical stance on Spain's footballing history.

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Desde 2010 viven en un verso. ¿Dónde está el verso de 2014? No está la camada. ¿Dónde está el verso de 2018? No está la camada. ¿Y 2022? Tampoco. Recién ahora tienen una camada. Entonces dejen de decir que ustedes crearon el 4-3-3. El 4-3-3 es de los años 80 y lo rompió Arrigo Sacchi