Sergio Ramos says Spain back to playing ‘unique, fabulous football’ under Luis Enrique

Football
Paco Alcácer scored twice in the opening half-hour and Sergio Ramos added a goal of his own as Spain defeated Wales 4-1.
Paul Mariner is delighted for Gareth Southgate’s England extension and breaks down the UEFA Nations League roster to face Croatia and Spain.

SEVILLE — Sergio Ramos has said Spain fans are being treated to “unique and fabulous” football as the national team rediscover their form under Luis Enrique following a disappointing World Cup.

Spain were eliminated in the round of 16 after coach Julen Lopetegui left for Real Madrid on the eve of the tournament.

But former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique has now led them to three consecutive wins, including a 6-0 victory over World Cup finalists Croatia last month.

They host England at Real Betis on Monday, when a point would seal a place in the final four of the UEFA Nations League next summer.

“Not everything was positive [after the World Cup],” Ramos told a news conference on Sunday. “Football is about results, that’s what stays with the fans. And after the World Cup, the mood was down.

“But with the generational change, some players have left, the change of coach, a little order and discipline has been restored. The results and the performances have been good.

“We want to maintain that excitement because the fans are seeing unique, fabulous football. The signs are good. We’re on the right path. We want to continue with that dynamic, keep winning games and try to win and qualify for the final four.”

Spain beat England 2-1 at Wembley last month, but Ramos said they would not be taking Gareth Southgate’s side lightly.

The Real Madrid captain is wary of the threat they carry in attack, despite striker Harry Kane being without a goal in six internationals.

“We know the level of difficulty is tremendous,” he added. “We have a great team in front of us. We did really well at Wembley, but there are things to keep improving.

“This is another chance against world-class players. Players in the Premier League are physical, but they also have a lot of quality.

“Kane is physical but he is also extraordinary technically. Maybe he surprises a lot of people, but not me. They’re dangerous. We have studied them well and hope it won’t be their day.”

Luis Enrique did not single out an individual England player but had kind words for Southgate, who he joked was helping him improve his English.

“I like Southgate as a coach,” he said. “I like the way he interprets the game by trying to play with the ball and adapting to his players, which is something we all must do.

“[His] new contract shows [the FA] have confidence in him. Also, following his news conferences is helping me with my English. It’s like having an English teacher for free!”

Spain have six points from their two games so far, while England and Croatia have one each. A point for La Roja in Seville will see them top the group, but Luis Enrique is targeting all three.

“The only result which interests us is a win,” he added. “Don’t forget, we’re playing against a young team that does things well. But we want to win the game — that is our only focus.”

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