Luis de la Fuente talks Inaki Pena, Ansu Fati, Gavi – ‘Very loved’ | OneFootball

Spanish national team coach Luis de la Fuente shared his thoughts in an interview with SPORT, discussing the current situation of several players at Barcelona, including Inaki Peña and Ansu Fati.

De la Fuente began by praising Pena, who has impressed both at Barcelona and in his role with the national team.

De la Fuente acknowledged his growth and consistency, noting that the goalkeeper has been a fixture in the youth squads and his performances haven’t surprised him.

“Inaki is a great goalkeeper, he has been with us at various stages. I celebrate that there are many outfield players and goalkeepers who play for their clubs because that is good for their teams and for the Spanish national team,” he began saying.

The coach highlighted that while Pena has shown great potential, there is still room for further improvement, which bodes well for his future at both club and international levels.

“He has been in all the youth categories. He was a fixture. I celebrate his performance and I’m not surprised. We know his potential and capacity. And he has room for improvement,” he added.

Ansu can regain his levels

Ansu Fati has picked up another injury. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The topic then shifted to Ansu, whose injury has once again put him on the sidelines for about a month. De la Fuente expressed his disappointment over his setback but remained optimistic about his recovery.

“It hurts me a lot that he has been injured again. And of course, it is recoverable. His talent is fantastic, we love him very much. With me, he has been in different stages and I’m sure he can come back,” he stated.

The coach emphasized the incredible talent Ansu possesses and his belief that the striker can regain the form that once made him one of the most promising young players in world football.

“When he returns to play he will be in the process of gaining confidence, which is sometimes very complex when you have a level as high as the one Ansu showed. But everything is a process.”

De la Fuente noted that overcoming such challenges requires time, particularly in terms of rebuilding confidence after an injury.

“First he has to go through because he is, well, safe, confident and plays a great game. To the one who plays a great game, of which I am satisfied.”

He is hopeful that once Ansu returns, he will continue to grow and regain his place in the national team, highlighting that it’s all part of a process that requires patience and perseverance.

“It will change its dynamic and hopefully. Because it has always been in our mind to be able to be selected,” he said.

Optimistic about Gavi

De la Fuente is optimistic about Gavi. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

On a more positive note, de la Fuente spoke with enthusiasm about Gavi’s recovery. The coach expressed his joy at the midfielder’s return to form and was confident that Gavi would soon reach his best level again.

Known for his energy and determination, Gavi has always been a fan favourite, both at Barcelona and within the national team.

“He is very important on a personal level because he is very loved, emotional because he has an energy that is contagious and football-wise because he is very good.”

De la Fuente revealed that Gavi’s return was celebrated like a party, acknowledging that his character and resilience would help him bounce back swiftly.

“I celebrated the day he reappeared as a party and I hope he has this health to continue improving,” he added.

He is confident that Gavi will be back to his best soon, continuing to make an impact both on and off the pitch.

“It is a matter of time to recover the level. With his character, it will not cost him much. He is a tough, determined person and he will be again the Gavi we all know,” he concluded.