The president of Real Madrid, Florentino Pérez, blamed the humiliating defeat of Spain against Portugal to Barcelona players: “They do not have the level to play finals.” Immediately afterwards, Luis de la Fuente responded in a way that left Real Madrid’s president without words.
In the vibrant atmosphere of the UEFA 2024/25 League, Spain had to receive a bitter defeat against Portugal with a score of 2-2 after 90 minutes and extra time, before losing 3-5 in the penalty shooting. The match took place at the Allianz Arena left many confused emotions for Spanish fans, especially when Real Madrid president, Florentino Pérez, suddenly criticized Barcelona’s players, saying that they were the main cause of team failure.
Immediately after the game, it was said that Pérez said in an interview: “Barcelona players are not qualified to play in the final. They lack assertiveness and courage at decisive moments.” Criticisms aimed at stars such as Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Gavi, Fermín Lapez and Pau Cubarsí, who were present in the Spanish team but could not help the local team win. In particular, Pérez emphasized that the game of these players lacks stability and does not meet the expectations of a maximum match.
Pérez’s speech immediately controversial, especially when the Spanish team also has the presence of many Real Madrid players such as Dani Carvajal and Dean Huijsen, but is not mentioned in criticism. Many people think that this is a movement to attack the opponent of Barcelona, which is in a successful season under the guide of coach Hansi’s film. However, this statement has found a strong reaction from the Spanish coach, Luis de la Fuente.
At the press conference after the game, De la Fuente did not hesitate to answer: “I respect all ideas, but the blame for a group of players is unfair. Spain is a team, and we lose for small details, not because of the lack of qualifications. Barcelona players have played excellent, from Lamine Yamal with two goals against France, to Pedri with a key role in the middle of my students.” De la Fuente’s sharp response caused the public to think that Pérez “silences” and protects the honor of the young players of Barcelona.
The tension between Pérez and De la Fuente is not the first time that appears. Previously, De La Fuente was criticized by the media of Real Madrid when he did not summon former stars like Sergio Ramos, but always maintained a team to build a team based on solidarity and talent. The defeat against Portugal, although unfortunately, still showed that Spain was a potential team, and from the source confirmed that it would not change its philosophy despite criticism.
This incident not only warmed the battle between Real Madrid and Barcelona, but also initiated the debate on the role of young players in the national team. While Pérez continued in silence after De la Fuente’s comments, fans hoped to see if this conflict affects the spirit of the Spanish team in the next tournaments.
