De la Fuente adamant there is no racism in Spain despite England reminder to players

De la Fuente rejected Tuchel's suggestion of anti-racism protocols ahead of Sunday's Nations League match in Madrid, insisting Spain has no racism problem.

Former Spain manager Luis de la Fuente responded to England coach Thomas Tuchel's statement that he would brief his players on anti-racism protocols before their Nations League meeting at the Metropolitano on Sunday. Tuchel had referenced England's experience of racist abuse during a 2004 match in Madrid, noting that although England have returned to Spain three times without incident since then, he wanted to ensure his squad was prepared.

De la Fuente rejected the implication, telling Tuchel: "Tell Thomas there is no racism. As clear as that. Exactly the same as in England. We're not racists, none of us." The statement came despite Spain being fined for discriminatory chants about Muslims during a match against Egypt in Barcelona in March.

De la Fuente also praised the upcoming fixture as "one of the best games you can see anywhere in the world right now, maybe the best". He acknowledged that Spain lacked control during their 3-2 win at Wembley in September and will need to exercise better possession and impose themselves more on their opponents on Sunday.

He described England as a great team with excellent players, noting their recent success in reaching Euro finals and World Cup semi-finals.