Spain's manager says criticism motivates team ahead of Saudi Arabia clash

Spain's manager Luis de la Fuente acknowledged that his team lives in a "bubble" but insisted that external criticism serves as motivation for his competitive players. Ahead of their crucial World Cup match against Saudi Arabia, De la Fuente expressed confidence that the team's preparations have not been derailed by their uninspiring draw against Cape Verde.

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We live in a bubble, but criticism motivates us because we have very competitive footballers.

"We are motivated," De la Fuente told reporters. "We're eager for tomorrow, to compete again and recover those good feelings we had before." He emphasized that the team has analyzed their previous performance to identify mistakes and areas for improvement, particularly in sharpness and ball distribution, which were lacking in their opener.

The Spanish squad is preparing to face a Saudi Arabian team that also drew their opening match. De la Fuente anticipates another defensively oriented opponent, noting that teams often adopt a "low block" strategy against Spain's dominant style. He stressed the need for his team to be more clinical in front of goal.

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There's no despair. We are motivated.

Questions also arose regarding the fitness of 18-year-old winger Lamine Yamal, who returned from injury to play against Cape Verde. De la Fuente confirmed Yamal is feeling well and his minutes will be managed, with the possibility of him starting. For his 65th birthday on Sunday, the manager's wish is for an injury-free game and a victory.

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My best present would be to be happy, that we are injury-free, we have a good game, and hopefully we win.