Spain coach tells Yamal to 'make defenders suffer' against Portugal

Spain's national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, has encouraged rising star Lamine Yamal to "make defenders suffer" in their crucial World Cup Round of 16 match against Portugal. De la Fuente conveyed his satisfaction with the young winger's contributions, stating that Yamal is consistently willing to put in extra effort, which is vital for his development.

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We don't need to ask him to work harder. Lamine Yamal is always willing to work more; he knows his growth depends on these aspects. We are all delighted with what he gives us.

"We don't need to ask him to work harder. Lamine Yamal is always willing to work more; he knows his growth depends on these aspects. We are all delighted with what he gives us," De la Fuente said during a press conference. He added that his advice to Yamal is to "make the defender suffer" so they are more focused on him, acknowledging that there will be phases of the game where Portugal will dictate play.

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I suggest that he make the defender suffer so that they are more focused on him; knowing that there will be phases of the game where they will take the initiative.

De la Fuente drew parallels between Yamal and Nuno Mendes, noting that many players struggle against strong opponents. He believes Yamal has the potential to cause similar difficulties for defenders. "Lamine Yamal has to be confident and not anxious. He should enjoy himself and do what he needs to do. We hope Lamine Yamal is as he always is and gives us an afternoon of glory," the coach remarked.

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Lamine Yamal has to be confident and not anxious. He should enjoy himself and do what he needs to do. We hope Lamine Yamal is as he always is and gives us an afternoon of glory.

The coach is optimistic about Yamal's prospects in the upcoming game, seeing it as a perfect opportunity for the player to shine. "I see him more motivated and eager every day. Lamine Yamal loves these matches, the responsibility, and being in the spotlight. Zero anxiety and one hundred percent motivation. He is at a superior level of motivation and desire. It's a pleasure to see him train and have a footballer of his caliber; it gives coaches a lot of peace of mind. Tomorrow could be a great match for him because it has all the ingredients for it to be so," De la Fuente concluded.

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I see him more motivated and eager every day. Lamine Yamal loves these matches, the responsibility, and being in the spotlight. Zero anxiety and one hundred percent motivation.