Luis de la Fuente has been named the world's best coach after leading the Spain national team to victory at the 2026 World Cup. The 65-year-old manager received the award at the Ballon d'Or ceremony on October 27th at London's Palladium, capping a historic three-year cycle in charge of La Roja.
De la Fuente took over the national side in 2023, succeeding Luis Enrique. His second match ended in defeat to Scotland, but he soon imposed a distinct style built on effort, organisation and collective values over individual glory. Under his guidance, Spain won the 2023 Nations League against Croatia, Euro 2024 against England and, on July 19th, the 2026 World Cup after beating Argentina in the final at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium.
This unprecedented treble in Spain's modern football history has cemented his legacy. "People around the world did not simply congratulate De la Fuente on his victories. They also praised how Spain achieved them," it was noted. His philosophy, blending possession with swift attacking play, has defined a golden era.
Spain's winning streak remains unbroken. The team is on a run of four consecutive victories, most recently a 1-2 win over Croatia on October 6th featuring a Mikel Merino brace. With Lamine Yamal and Rodri scoring in the last 3-1 win over the Czechs, and Mikel Oyarzabal as the season's top scorer with five goals, De la Fuente's project continues in full force. The manager, known for his disciplined lifestyle, faith and interest in historical reading, has built a career based, as stated, "on relentless effort". La Roja now prepares for the trip to Prague to close out the year.
The original report is at sports.yahoo.com
