Spain's coach praises Messi, Scaloni, and Alfaro's coaching philosophies

Spain's national football coach, Luis De la Fuente, lauded Lionel Messi for his extraordinary performance at 39 years old during the 2026 World Cup, describing the Argentine superstar as a master of the game.

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Messi looks like he's 19, or 23... He's at an exceptional level, especially in his maturity, which he has. He has lived through 50,000 situations like this. He has been a master because he has done it his whole life, but he continues to demonstrate it today, congratulations.

"Messi looks like he's 19, or 23... He's at an exceptional level, especially in his maturity, which he has. He has lived through 50,000 situations like this. He has been a master because he has done it his whole life, but he continues to demonstrate it today, congratulations," De la Fuente stated at a press conference ahead of Spain's quarter-final match.

De la Fuente emphasized Messi's unwavering commitment and insatiable drive, calling him an inspiration for aspiring footballers. He noted that Messi's continued excellence at his age serves as a valuable lesson for younger players, demonstrating that dedication and hard work bring one closer to achieving goals.

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He is tireless, insatiable and an example for those starting in football. Messi is an example of the moral, that when someone wants to, and works, they are always closer to achieving their goals.

Beyond praising Messi, De la Fuente shared his admiration for fellow coaches Lionel Scaloni of Argentina and Gustavo Alfaro of Paraguay. He particularly values Scaloni's ability to manage people and foster a cohesive team environment, stating, "I focus on the management beyond the tactical. Managing people, professionals, giving them what they need, selecting those who adapt and integrate well into an idea and who, on a human level, add value."

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I focus on the management beyond the tactical. Managing people, professionals, giving them what they need, selecting those who adapt and integrate well into an idea and who, on a human level, add value. I agree with Lio [Scaloni], who I know is also a great person, and I celebrate that.

De la Fuente also declared himself an admirer of Alfaro, emphasizing the power of leadership rooted in values. He concluded by referencing the Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius: "What is bad for the beehive is bad for the bee." This philosophy underscores his belief in prioritizing the collective good of the team above individual interests.

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I declare myself an admirer of him, I admire many good people... One day he spoke about how leadership in values is currently in vogue. That has much more power than any other behavior... this model works and we try to unite and do everything based on the group; that is our foundation.