De La Fuente Champions Rodri And Carvajal For Ballon D'Or Honours

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Luis de la Fuente believes Rodri and Dani Carvajal deserve the Ballon d'Or after being shortlisted. Both players were instrumental in Spain's record-breaking fourth European Championship win, defeating England 2-1 in Berlin last July.

Rodri was named Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024, leading Spain from midfield in all but one of their seven games. Despite an injury forcing him off at half-time in the final, his impact was undeniable. Domestically, he remained unbeaten in 34 Premier League matches last season, contributing to Manchester City's historic fourth consecutive title.

Carvajal also had a remarkable season with Real Madrid, winning LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League. He scored the opening goal in the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund, becoming the first defender to do so since Sergio Ramos in 2015-16.

De la Fuente strongly supports their Ballon d'Or candidacy. "Both Rodri and Dani Carvajal have without doubt earned the right," he told The Guardian. He emphasised their consistent excellence over time, highlighting Carvajal's six Champions League titles and Rodri's numerous league victories.

"If after everything they have done, they’re not considered, it would be a huge injustice," De la Fuente added. "They’ve done more than enough. Not just now, but everything."

Lamine Yamal's Breakout Performance

Lamine Yamal also made the shortlist for his outstanding performance at just 16 years old during the Euros. He became the youngest player to appear in a Euros or World Cup final at 17, breaking Pele’s record from 1958. Yamal also set a new record as the youngest scorer at the European Championships and provided four assists.

De la Fuente recognised Yamal’s unique talent early on. "Faith in young players isn’t an act; it’s a conviction," he said. "When you see talent, play them, even if they’re young."

"Lamine is very good," De la Fuente continued. "It’s true what I said: that he’s touched by God’s wand." He noted that exceptional players often stand out from a young age.

Spain will start their Nations League defence against Serbia on Thursday before facing Switzerland on Sunday in League A Group 4.