England and Spain react to racism speculation
England manager Thomas Tuchel does not expect racist abuse during Monday's (AEDT) UEFA Nations League clash with Spain but said his players would be reminded of anti-racism protocols, prompting a terse response from Spain coach Luis de la Fuente.
England faces the world champion in Madrid with top spot in their UEFA Nations League group at stake, returning to the Spanish capital for the first time since a 2004 friendly in which black England players, including Ashley Cole and Shaun Wright-Phillips, were subjected to racist abuse from the crowd.
England midfielder Declan Rice said the squad knew exactly how to respond if racism occurrs.
"In the past, I've experienced that in Montenegro, Bulgaria and there was a protocol in place we followed," Rice said. "We came off the pitch. We know exactly where we are as a group on that.
"I'm not expecting any of that. This is a beautiful city, great stadium, the players we're playing against we have a lot of respect for. It's set up to be a really good evening and hopefully not a negative one."
The issue gained traction after Spain was fined $US20,000 after anti-Muslim chants by supporters during a match against Egypt in Barcelona in March.
Spain must also play its next home friendly with a reduced-capacity crowd as part of the punishment.
De la Fuente rejected any suggestion that racism was a problem in Spain.
"What I can tell you, and you can pass this on to Thomas, is that there is no racism in Spain. That's how strongly I feel about it," De la Fuente said.
"There is no racism. Just as in England, there is no racism in Spain. None of us are racist."
Tuchel bristled when told of De la Fuente's remarks, accusing sections of the Spanish media of misrepresenting his comments.
"I was polite enough to [answer] a question from your colleagues, and you run and ask the other coach and tell him that I talk about racism in Spain," Tuchel said.
"I never talked about racism in Spain. I answered politely a question about what happens. I never expect racism and the dressing room is the most anti-racist place on earth."
James Trafford will start in goal for England, said Tuchel, who added that everyone was fit to play including Ezri Konsa and Djed Spence who have recovered from injury.
He also said he has full belief in England's ability to win a major trophy, despite not having done so since lifting the FIFA World Cup in 1966.
"I absolutely believe we can win a big tournament," the German said.
"I had the belief before the [2026 FIFA] World Cup. That's why it was very painful we fell short. The belief is there and the attitude to push our limits.
"I'm happy with the progress and moment we're in. It's a good moment to challenge the world champions.
"We want to win the [UEFA] Nations League and we want to win the [UEFA] Euros."
In England's most recent win over Croatia, Jude Bellingham was again on song, and Tuchel believes the Real Madrid star will rise to the occasion in familiar territory.
"He was already in the mix for this Ballon d'Or. I understand the obsession and scrutiny of this individual prize," Tuchel said.
"You can maybe understand me as a team coach, I believe in team spirit and togetherness. I'm not the biggest fan of that prize.
"But of course Jude is one of the most talented players on the planet. One of the most exciting midfield players. He's where decisive actions happen on the field.
"He had an incredible [2026 FIFA] World Cup for us, was decisive and influential on the very highest level. He's one of the key players for Real Madrid every three days and will be up to the highest level. That's for sure the stage he loves and brings out the very best in him."
