The Leadership of Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente : Building a Eurocup Champion Team. Part 1.

The Origin

As you may already know, if I don't tell you, Spain has won the 2024 European Football Championship with an absolute record, 7 wins out of 7 matches. A vibrant game. And most surprisingly, a team that did not appear among the 4 favorites, at best, it was expected to reach the Quarterfinals. It has beaten the previous champion Italy, also the previous runner-up, England. The second team in the last World Cup, France, and also the third, Croatia. The host team Germany (never before).

How could this have happened?

For me, the figure of the coach has been key to this great success.

The Process

So much so that I decided to watch all the press conferences of the same in this Euro (yes, all), in order to know more in depth how Luis de la Fuente's Leadership is, how he has inspired and paved these players to do something extraordinary.

Honoring him, I have not collected the post-victory statements of the final, because as he says "we value too much the result (the victory) and we have to realize the importance of the process. That is why I want to "analyze that process". I hope to shed some light on it. And maybe, we can copy something in our own organizations, teams, etc...

Opinion from the coach his Team

Luis de la Fuente′s opinion about his team plays a vital role in shaping the Spanish team’s dynamics, performance, and overall success. It influences motivation, unity, development, trust, and strategic alignment, all of which are crucial for a team to thrive and achieve its goals.

Luis de la Fuente has always a very positive and detailed view of his team as a result:

Solidarity and Cohesion

He emphasizes that the idea of playing like a "small team" suggested by Rodri (best player from the tournament) is more about solidarity and cohesion than tactics. He considers it vital that the team functions as a unit, where each player contributes their effort for the group's benefit.

Competitive Potential

He is convinced that the team has the potential to compete at the highest level. Although they are not considered favorites, he knows that the team is capable of fighting for the top in any competition (as it happened).

"My 26 players are the best in the world, I wouldn't trade them for anyone." Luis de la Fuente statements repeated on several occasions.

Superior Talent

Luis de la Fuente attributes superior individual talent and remarkable quality to the team. He believes that this talent, combined with a collective approach, makes the team stronger and more competitive.

Commitment and Effort

The coach values the commitment and effort of his players. He mentions every time that everyone is motivated and committed to the cause, which is crucial for facing any challenge.

What is your Manager's opinion of your department? or your division? or your Working Group?

Do you know it? Does he/she make it public?

5 Strategies from Luis de la Fuente to motivate the players

Motivating the players is essential for the overall success and effectiveness of a national team, especially considering the short time the coach has to prepare for national tournaments.

Luis de la Fuente uses several strategies to motivate his players.

1. Recognition and Valuation

Luis de la Fuente constantly, in every moment, recognizes the talent and effort of his players, both publicly and privately. This gives them confidence and motivates them to keep striving.

2. Messages of Solidarity and Cohesion

He emphasizes the importance of solidarity and cohesion within the team. He makes the players feel they are part of something bigger than themselves, which is a great motivator.

3. Constant Support

The coach provides constant support to his players, especially in moments of pressure or difficulty. He assures them that he trusts them and will always be there to support them.

"I know these players won't let me down, and I won't let them down." Luis de la Fuente, at every press conference.

4. Clear Challenges and Objectives

He sets clear challenges and achievable objectives. This gives the players a concrete goal to fight for, keeping them focused and motivated.

5. Confidence and Security

Luis de la Fuente transmits confidence in his abilities and those of the team. This creates an environment where players feel safe to give their best without fear of making mistakes.

How does your boss motivate you?

What strategies do you use?

Which ones would you like him to use?

If you like it, give it a ???? and write your comments ??.? ?? Repost if you think will helpful for others.

Subscribe ??on LinkedIn for the next edition https://www.dhirubhai.net/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7170829583808712704