This perspective was shared by Jorge Valdano in the opinion section of the Spanish newspaper El Pais.

Let's revisit a once-popular metaphor. First, the context. It was the 20th century, and the word 'furia' (fury) dominated sports commentary, aiming to define the playing style of Spanish football. But 'fury,' after all, is merely a temporary emotional outburst. No one can use an outburst to shape a style.

During a period when Spanish football lacked a clear philosophy, Cesar Luis Menotti intervened in that search with his classic statement: "Spain must decide whether it wants to be the bull or the bullfighter". This quote carried multiple layers of hidden meaning. The criticism of lacking a defined playing style was the most obvious, but there was also an unspoken, somewhat provocative message: "I will explain it in bullfighting terms, because that is the only thing you understand".

Lamine Yamal (number 19) scores during the Spain – Croatia Nations League group stage match at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan stadium, Seville, Spain on 29/9. *Photo: Reuters*

The late legendary Argentine coach said that, and now another Argentine – myself – is reiterating it. As time passes and the 2026 World Cup final becomes a thing of the past, I retract any previous criticism and make way for the readers' joy. However, let's not get carried away.

Much has been said about Spain's football journey this century. It involved fateful factors, great teams that became global benchmarks, fortunate coincidences, titles that elevated belief, and an academic mindset that transformed knowledge into a distinct school of thought. It is a comprehensive culture.

Menotti's challenge was answered, albeit late, but with great force. Spain chose to be the bullfighter, and not just any bullfighter. They pass through the 'main gate' of major events with rare frequency. If they previously sought their identity, they now export that very identity. Midfielders, coaches, and a highly admired playing style are sought after everywhere due to their superior aesthetics and effectiveness. Menotti lived to see Spain not only become bullfighters but also establish 'bullfighting schools'.

During these FIFA Days, it's also necessary to look at the world stage.

Spain's 40-match unbeaten streak, with 31 wins and 9 draws, is a dominant statistic. It is also a warning. Similar to the Germans in the past, anyone facing them must feel apprehension. One way or another, they will win. This resilience, seemingly carved in stone, has now been 'stolen' by Spain, with a unique added bonus: Spain wins, and we know exactly how they win. They dominate, encircle, and make the ball the center of the football universe.

In this reordering, there is an even greater symbolic usurpation. Spain, in the eyes of the world, now represents what Brazil once stood for throughout a long period of history: the symbol of absolute excellence.

Spanish players during a training session before the Spain – Croatia Nations League group stage match at the Jesus Navas center, Seville, Spain on 28/9. *Photo: EFE*

Concurrently, the profiles of other long-standing football nations have also seen significant changes. Uruguay, while always delighting fans with its competitive attitude, can no longer solely rely on the pride of its fighting spirit. Italian football has lost its central position. Argentina, which once introduced Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi, now faces the risk of deifying courage – a valuable quality, but not the most fertile ground for continuously producing geniuses.

Football, the world's most popular sport, constantly evolves with the times. Styles that were once well-defined are now like a deck of cards shuffled and redealt under the influence of television. People can watch football from across the globe, and players and coaches move freely, without pause.

The further these individuals travel, the more new perspectives they absorb, while also spreading their own philosophies. These migrations alter identities and drive transformation. It is time to re-evaluate the specific characteristics of each nation's football, which we often recite like a mantra, even though they are merely outdated prejudices.

Spain's new generation of players must continue the path their predecessors forged, while remaining vigilant not to repeat historical mistakes. Menotti was right about one thing: skepticism is the worst place to stop. To escape doubt, Spain has won titles, prestige, and a playing style of its own. But most importantly, they have forged an absolute belief in themselves.

Jorge Alberto Francisco Valdano Castellanos (born 4/10/1955), won the 1986 World Cup with the Argentina national team. In that tournament, he was not only an effective partner to Diego Maradona but also scored 4 goals, including one in the thrilling final against West Germany. At club level, he also had brilliant years with Real Madrid, winning La Liga twice and two UEFA Cups. After retiring from playing, Valdano coached Real Madrid to the La Liga title in the 1994-1995 season, and was instrumental in discovering and giving "Lord of the Rings" Raul Gonzalez – one of the club's greatest symbols – his debut. Valdano's influence at Real extended to the upper echelons, where he served as CEO and Sporting Director under President Florentino Perez. After leaving management, he became a respected sports expert. Currently, Valdano is a sharp columnist for the esteemed newspaper El Pais, host of the popular interview program Universo Valdano (Valdano's Universe) on Movistar+, and a familiar commentator for major sports television channels worldwide. He is known as the "Football Philosopher" (or sage of the pitch) due to his humane, insightful perspective that always prioritizes the spiritual value and beauty of football over mere results.

Hoang Thong (according to El Pais)