De la Fuente says Merino would be valued more in another country

“In another country, Mikel Merino would be valued more,” Luis de la Fuente said after the match against Croatia. The Spanish coach spoke in the press room at Poljud in Split following a game that closed the long first window of the Nations League.

His remarks combined praise for Merino with an assessment of the team. De la Fuente described a group of players who “never give up” and continue to surprise him. He felt his side had been clearly superior in the second half and called the victory, achieved after turning the match around, richly deserved.

The coach also acknowledged the challenge posed by Croatia. Spain suffered in the first half, he said, before gradually taking control of the contest. He said he was very proud of his players and described coaching Merino as an honour. In his view, the midfielder had clearly shown why he would have wanted to carry him in his arms to the World Cup. De la Fuente added that he hoped Merino would receive greater recognition.

Unai also spoke about the extra scrutiny some players face. He said he was pleased for everyone, “some more than others”, and expressed the hope that his preferred winner would take the Ballon d’Or for goalkeepers, noting that three goalkeepers had been nominated.