Luis de la Fuente has been very direct in his latest press conference. He has wanted to be clear about his next steps. He doesn't want controversies, but he does want commitment and consistency in daily work.
Since he took charge of the Spanish national team, he has bet on merit. He wants people who contribute, not names living off the past. Only those who are in form and have consistent playing time will play.
Luis de la Fuente sends a message with name and surname
There's no room for rest in top-level soccer. Competition is at its highest, and every detail counts to make the squad lists. Luis de la Fuente wants everyone to earn it on the field.
He has already left out important names due to a lack of match fitness. He prefers new faces with rhythm over veterans without minutes. His philosophy is clear: talent without consistency isn't enough to win titles.
A young Real Madrid prospect at the center of the debate
There's a case that especially concerns him at this stage. It's about a very promising young player, but with little playing time lately. After being a regular starter, he's now being relegated to Real Madrid's bench.
His situation reflects how difficult it is to establish oneself at the elite level. De la Fuente doesn't hide it: If he doesn't play, he won't be able to count on him because he needs footballers with competitive rhythm every week.
Raúl Asencio, the great white hope, in the spotlight
The subject of this warning is Raúl Asencio, one of Real Madrid's gems. The center-back started the season as an undisputed starter. But as the months have gone by, he has lost prominence.
Luis de la Fuente has already conveyed his concern to him. He believes he must look for a solution as soon as possible. If he doesn't get minutes, his place in the Spanish national team is in jeopardy.
Luis de la Fuente recommends leaving if there are no minutes at Bernabéu
The door remains open, but with clear conditions. If Asencio can't secure a spot in the starting eleven, he must look for a way out. The goal is for him to keep growing and not stall his development.
The national team wants to keep counting on him, but not at any cost. The national jersey demands consistency and daily effort. Luis de la Fuente makes no exceptions, not even for his favorites.
The Spanish national team isn't a prize, it's a responsibility
Luis de la Fuente sums it up with a simple phrase: "He has to play." It's not just about training well or having potential. He has to show it every weekend on the field.
Raúl Asencio still has a bright future ahead of him. But he needs minutes, confidence, and continuity. Only then will he be able to wear La Roja again and be an important part of the national project.