Spain coach defends Gavi after hard tackle on Rodri

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente defended Barcelona midfielder Gavi after his aggressive challenge on Rodri during a Spain training session. He made clear he has no intention of altering the midfielder’s approach. He wants Gavi to keep his intensity. Footage circulating on social media showed Gavi catching Manchester City forward Rodri late on his ankle. De la Fuente was asked about the incident after the video spread. He said Gavi must manage his energy but that he wants him like that. Gavi has built his reputation on relentless intensity, pressing and tackling, traits that have made him a regular for Barcelona and Spain despite long injury layoffs. After returning from a serious knee injury, recent training clips suggest his trademark passion remains intact. Rodri remains linked with a move to Real Madrid this summer, adding drama to the incident. De la Fuente added that Gavi should choose his tackles more wisely to avoid risking injury to his teammate ahead of the World Cup.