Valdano: 'The Spanish National Team Has a Position Like Brazil in
October 5, 2026 ·
Cựu HLV Jorge Valdano considers the current Spanish national team to be the best in the world, similar to the position that Brazil has held in football history.
Valdano: 'The Spanish National Team Has a Position Like Brazil's
Why this is important
Jorge Valdano's views on the Spanish national team show how football has evolved in the country. By likening Spain's current position to Brazil in the past, Valdano emphasized the importance of identity in the game, which is the key to the success of the Spanish national team on the world stage. It also underlines the shift from uncertainty of playing style to a clear and directed philosophy.
Main Points
- Valdano: 'The Spanish National Team Has a Position Like Brazil's.
- Cựu HLV Jorge Valdano considers the current Spanish national team to be the best in the world, similar to the position Brazil has held in football history.
- Valdano: 'Tây Ban Nha mang vị thế như Brazil trong quá khứ'.
"Spain have chosen to be fighters, and not ordinary fighters. They enter the big stage with rare frequency. If previously they were constantly looking for an identity, now they are exporting that identity," said Valdano.
The context of Valdano's thoughts refers to the long journey of Spanish football which has gone through various transformations and developments. In the 20th century, the term "furia" (anger) was often used to describe team spirit, but according to Valdano, this emotion cannot be the basis for building a consistent playing style.
One of the criticisms conveyed by Valdano was regarding the uncertainty of the playing style of the Spanish national team in the past. He reminded the legendary statement by coach Cesar Luis Menotti who emphasized that Spain must choose to be "bulls" or "warriors". Menotti, an Argentinian coach, highlighted the shortcomings in the Spanish team's playing philosophy which at that time was still unclear.
As time goes by, Valdano shows that Spain has succeeded in responding to this challenge. They not only became fighters, but also created "combat schools" that taught globally recognized strategies and playing philosophies. With a run of 40 unbeaten matches, of which 31 ended in victory, Spain sent a strong signal to the football world that they were worthy of being taken into account.
"Their form of play is now the center of attention and liked by many people. Spain didn't just win; they won in a clear and measurable way," said Valdano.
Spain's victory after victory has made them a symbol of achievement in football, comparable to what Brazil has shown in the past. In Valdano's view, the Spanish national team has succeeded in creating a style that combines beauty and effectiveness.
Looking to the future, Valdano reminded the new generation of Spanish players to continue to build on the legacy built by their predecessors, while remaining wary of the historical pitfalls of possibly repeating the same mistakes. Confidence in yourself and the achievements you have achieved must be a driving force to continue competing at the highest level.
Jorge Valdano, who was born on October 4 1955, is an important figure in football history, both as a player and coach. He participated in winning the 1986 World Cup title with Argentina and contributed to the success of the Real Madrid club. Today, Valdano is known as an influential commentator and writer, providing in-depth analysis of football across various media platforms.
With a rich background, Valdano is recognized as a "football philosopher" thanks to his deep, humanistic views on the game, as well as his emphasis on spiritual and aesthetic values in football, more than just the final result.
What happened next
In the future, it is hoped that the Spanish national team will be able to maintain their best performance and continue to compete at the highest level, including in the upcoming World Cup. Valdano's insight can be a motivation for players and coaches to continue to develop the playing style that has been formed. With their experience and knowledge, they have the potential to become a dominant force in global football.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Jorge Valdano say about the Spanish national team?
Jorge Valdano called the Spanish national team the best collective in world football and compared it to Brazil in the past.
Where does Valdano express his views?
Valdano expressed his views in a column in the daily El Pais, a leading Spanish media.
Why does Valdano compare Spain to Brazil?
Valdano compared Spain to Brazil to show that Spain have chosen to be strong fighters and have developed an identity in their game.
What criticism has Valdano made about Spain's playing style in the past?
Valdano criticized the uncertainty of the Spanish national team's playing style in the past and reminded the importance of choosing an identity in playing philosophy.
What has the Spanish national team achieved according to Valdano?
According to Valdano, the Spanish national team has succeeded in creating a 'combat school' that teaches globally recognized strategy and playing philosophy, with a series of 40 unbeaten matches.