How De la Fuente's Spain are closing in on greatness
Spain's national football team manager Luis de la Fuente is being praised for his leadership and team-building philosophy as the squad approaches a World Cup quarter-final against Belgium. De la Fuente has maintained a 35-game unbeaten streak by focusing on collective identity and the personal values of his players.
Why it matters
The article highlights the intersection of sports management and organizational culture, showcasing how a coach's leadership style can lead to sustained international success.
Published 10 July 2026, 07:47 BST Luis de la Fuente's Spain are closing in on greatness.
They are bidding to become just the fourth team to hold both the World Cup and European Championship crowns at the same time; following their compatriots in 2010, France in 2000 and West Germany back in 1974.
De la Fuente is now into his fourth year as Spain boss; winning the Euros two years ago and now guiding his country to a quarter-final against Belgium on Friday. France lie in wait for the winners.
He has lost just three times since he took over in January 2023, and is on a run of 35 games without a defeat.
There are coaches who build teams through tactics, and there are coaches who build teams through people. De la Fuente somehow manages to do both.
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