FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
The World Cup final between Argentina and Spain is not just a battle for the most prestigious trophy in world football. It also brings a rare human story, where a former teacher and a former student will face each other.
At MetLife Stadium, Lionel Scaloni and Luis de la Fuente will seek to write history, but few know that their paths crossed many years ago.
In 2017, immediately after ending his playing career, Scaloni attended the UEFA Pro License course at the Spanish Football Federation's center in Las Rozas. One of the teachers who taught tactics and game systems was Luis de la Fuente, then the coach of Spain's youth teams.
Seven years later, fate has brought them face to face on the biggest stage in football.
Scaloni: “ I learned a lot from him ”
The Argentina coach has never hidden his respect for his former professor.
" Not only did I have him as a teacher during the coaching course, but we also created a special relationship. I really appreciate Luis for the way he is as a person and for the closeness he has with everyone. Fate wanted us to face each other today in the World Cup final ."
Skaloni has shown that the relationship between them continued even after the end of the course, and they often communicated through messages, not only about football.
De la Fuente: “ I am proud of him ”
Even the Spain coach has spoken highly of his former student.
" I'm very happy to face Argentina. In addition to the connection I have with Scaloni, there is great respect and friendship between us. He has done an extraordinary job with Argentina ."
De la Fuente has even admitted that in some aspects he was inspired by Sccaloni's ideas during his development as a coach.
From doubts to success
Both technicians have gone through a similar journey to the top.
When Scaloni took charge of Argentina in 2018, many criticized him for his lack of experience. Even legend Diego Maradona was among the skeptics of his appointment.
De la Fuente was also questioned when he took charge of the Spanish national team, as he came from the youth teams and was not considered a big name.
However, both responded to critics in the best way possible: with trophies.
Scaloni led Argentina to triumph in the 2022 World Cup and won the Copa America twice, while De la Fuente gave Spain the 2023 Nations League and the European champion title in "EURO 2024".
A final that makes history
Former Spain women's national team coach Montse Tome, who was part of the same course in 2017, admits that no one would have imagined such a scenario.
" I never thought of such a scenario back then. But I knew that Luis had the potential to reach the top. He lived for football and worked tirelessly ."
Tonight, only one of them will lift the World Cup trophy. However, regardless of the result, the Argentina-Spain final will remain special for the history it carries: the teacher and the former student will duel for the biggest prize in world football.
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