A team like the Spanish European champions can have an impact beyond football, says the national coach. Luis de la Fuente praises his young professionals – also as role models.
Spain’s national coach Luis de la Fuente hopes that his European champions will have an influence far beyond football. “It’s football, but it’s also about values, sport embodies values,” said the 63-year-old after the 2:1 win in the European Championship final against England. “This generation is setting an example, they are young players who have the will, the mentality to work hard.” It is not just the end result that counts, “but the entire process. These players are an example for society because they shape these values.”
“Not just spoiled boys”
He does not know to what extent football can influence society, said the national coach. But people see “not just spoiled boys, but those who give everything,” said de la Fuente. “It would be nice if people understood that and we could show young people what they can achieve in life.”
Young star Nico Williams (22), who had shaped the tournament together with Lamine Yamal (17), expressed similar views. “I think it is a historic change that is happening,” said Williams. “I think that footballers have an influence on society.” The 22-year-old recalled his family history: “We are very grateful. My parents suffered a lot to get here. They suffered and taught me respect and loyalty.”
Moving family history
William’s father and his mother Maria, who was pregnant with their brother Iñaki, had once fled from Ghana to Europe with people smugglers who left them in the scorching heat of the Sahara. Father Felix suffered severe burns on the soles of his feet. When the family arrived in Spain, they were granted political asylum and had to survive in poverty for a long time.
Source: Stern
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