The 2024 edition of the European Championship culminates in a clash of titans in Berlin, as Spain faces England in the final on Sunday. This match-up pits two teams with distinct playing styles: Spain’s fluid, attacking approach against England’s disciplined, defensively-minded strategy. Beyond the tactical differences, the narrative surrounding the final is intertwined with the coaches’ journeys through youth football.
Luis De La Fuente, Spain’s head coach, has a rich history with the national youth teams. He led Spain’s under-19 side to European glory in 2015, nurturing talents like Rodri and Mikel Merino. His success continued with the under-21 team, culminating in a European Championship win in 2019. This under-21 squad featured key players like Unai Simon, Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo, and Merino, all of whom have played crucial roles in Spain’s journey to the final. In fact, 15 of the 26 players in Spain’s Euro 2024 squad have been guided by De La Fuente at various youth levels, fostering a consistent playing philosophy across different age groups. This long-term association has yielded positive results, as Spain looks to secure their second major trophy in a row after winning the UEFA Nations League last year. “The most important thing is that philosophy is completely integrated into the federation’s model so that every national team has one and the same idea. What’s most important is that we are all committed to and keep believing in this style,” De La Fuente told UEFA, emphasizing the continuity of Spain’s playing style.
Meanwhile, England’s Gareth Southgate has also carved his path through youth development. He took charge of the under-21 team in 2013, guiding a young Harry Kane, who eventually became one of England’s greatest players. While England’s under-21 side failed to progress beyond the group stage of the 2015 European Championship, Southgate’s impact on youth development goes beyond these results. His experience as Head of Elite Development at the Football Association played a pivotal role in strengthening England’s youth program. “If we are successful at under-16 and under-17, the players will carry the mindset through to the senior team that England is a place we go to and win. Like the Spanish are experiencing, like the Germans do,” Southgate said in 2011. This focus on grassroots development yielded success, with England winning the U-20 World Cup, U-19 European Championship, and U-17 World Cup in 2017. These achievements laid the foundation for the current generation of England players, including Aaron Ramsdale, Ezri Konsa, Phil Foden, Marc Guehi, Conor Gallagher, Mason Mount, and Reece James, who have made significant contributions to the senior team.
Both De La Fuente and Southgate have made smooth transitions to the senior level, showcasing their ability to develop and guide young talent. However, both coaches are yet to win a major trophy, with Spain’s UEFA Nations League title not considered a major championship. The Euro 2024 final presents an opportunity for either coach to achieve this coveted milestone, adding another chapter to their already successful journeys through the world of youth football.
