The World Cup 2026 final is a fascinating clash of two managers with unique journeys, Luis de la Fuente and Lionel Scaloni. What makes this final so intriguing is the personal connection and shared experience these men have, despite their different paths to the top.
The Teacher and the Student
In 2017, Lionel Scaloni, then in a post-playing limbo, enrolled in the Spanish federation's Uefa Pro Licence course. Little did he know, this decision would connect him to Luis de la Fuente, his future World Cup final opponent. De la Fuente, a teacher on the course, left a lasting impression on Scaloni, who credits him with providing an "enormous hand" during his studies. This bond, formed in a classroom, has endured, creating an intriguing dynamic for the upcoming final.
Paths to the Top
Both managers have faced periods where football seemed to leave them behind. De la Fuente, after a playing career that ended in 1994, spent years in various roles, including managing in lower leagues and assistant coaching positions. He even faced an 18-month period of unemployment, drifting away from the game. However, a chance advertisement and a phone call to a former manager led to his return and a successful run with Spain's youth teams.
Scaloni, on the other hand, grew up in the unique dressing room culture of Argentine football. He experienced success with Argentina's Under-20s and played for various clubs, including a loan spell at West Ham United. Retirement hit him hard, and he found solace in coaching youth teams. His coaching career took off when he became an assistant at Sevilla and later succeeded Jorge Sampaoli as Argentina's manager, despite initial criticism.
Building a Family
A detail that I find especially interesting is the emphasis both managers place on creating a family-like environment within their teams. De la Fuente's method involves instilling respect for rivals and preaching patience, with his work rooted in sacrifice and humility. His small gestures, like checking on his family before a final and embracing the team's photographer after learning of a loss, showcase his values. Scaloni, too, understands the importance of shared experiences, organizing barbecues and karaoke nights to bring his players together. Both managers recognize that the strength of their teams lies in the trust and continuity built within the group.
The Power of the Collective
What many people don't realize is that these managers' success is not solely attributed to tactical brilliance. Instead, it's their ability to harness the power of the collective, to create an environment where players feel comfortable and supported. This approach, combined with their personal connections to their players, has led to remarkable achievements. De la Fuente has coached many of his current players since their adolescence, and Scaloni has kept faith with Messi's supporting cast, even during difficult times. Their teams' greatest strength is the bond they've built, a bond that transcends individual talent.
A Final Reflection
As the student and the teacher prepare to meet again on the biggest stage, it's a reminder that football, at its core, is about human connections and the power of resilience. Both men have written their own remarkable stories back into the sport's history, and regardless of the outcome, their journeys will continue to inspire. Personally, I think this final is a testament to the beauty of football and the unexpected paths to success.
