Luis de la Fuente described Spain's UEFA Nations League final against Portugal as a "blessing" as it prepares to face Cristiano Ronaldo at Allianz Arena on Monday (AEST).

Spain booked its place in the showpiece match with an enthralling 5-4 victory over France on Friday (AEST), as Barcelona's Lamine Yamal scored twice.

De la Fuente's team now turns its attention to achieving a third major trophy in three years, having won the UEFA Nations League in 2023 and UEFA EURO 2024.

But standing in its way is Portugal, which came from a goal down to beat Germany in the semi-finals, with Ronaldo scoring the winner after Florian Wirtz's opener was cancelled out by Francisco Conceicao's stunner.

It was Ronaldo's 137th international goal, and De la Fuente only had words of praise for Portugal's 40-year-old talisman.

"It's a blessing to face Portugal and a footballer who has shaped an era and a legacy," De la Fuente said.

"I often use Cristiano Ronaldo as an example for my players and to express my admiration for him. He is a role model for everyone, young and old."

Earlier, Ronaldo confirmed he would not take part in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup after the expiration of his contract with Al-Nassr, having been linked with a move to several participating clubs.

De la Fuente also praised one of his own players, lauding Barcelona's Pedri for his impressive displays for Hansi Flick's side this season.

Pedri netted his first competitive goal for Spain in its 5-4 win over France, with that coming off the back of helping Barca to a domestic treble in 2024-2025.

Ahead of the showdown with Portugal, De la Fuente outlined how Pedri's game has evolved, with the 22-year-old now a guaranteed starter for Spain.

"Pedri has a special talent, as a number eight or as a number 10," De la Fuente said.

"I would like him to play closer to the opposition box as goals are scored nearer to the box. Key are the passes you make there, too.

"He contributes a lot to us there. Because he can make those final passes, he completes patterns of play, and he’s improved a lot with his shooting."