Denia: "We coaches are victims of the calendar, not guilty"

Former Czech Republic manager Denia, who spent 15 years with Spain's federation, discusses his new role ahead of Thursday's Nations League clash with Spain in Prague.

Santi Denia has become the first foreign manager in Czech Republic history after 15 years working within Spain's football federation across youth categories. The Albacete-born coach was appointed following conversations with Pavel Nedved and other federation officials during the World Cup, with his first four matches yielding no points but positive performances against Croatia, Spain and England twice.

Denia spoke ahead of Thursday's Nations League match against Spain, his former employer, which he lost 3-1 in their previous meeting. He emphasized the importance of understanding Czech football culture, the domestic league, and the federation's structure before implementing change.

He acknowledged Nedved's influence as the country's only Ballon d'Or winner and explained his decision to take the role was based on the federation's desire to develop young talent using a Spanish model of play.

The manager has already begun reshaping the squad, bringing back players like West Ham's Soucek who had left after the World Cup. Denia stressed the need to make players feel comfortable and create a sense of belonging, while adapting to Czech culture—including their passion for ice hockey, classical music and opera.