"It is an enormous emotion. You know that I have a deep devotion to Our Lady of the Pilar, and I have felt very happy and proud to be here with all of you. I am grateful for the invitation and the opportunity you have given me to stand before Our Lady," said the Spain coach, who often wears and carries one of the well-known measurements of Our Lady of the Pilar.
In this way, Luis de la Fuente was the most acclaimed figure at the Basilica and Pilar Square, which three months ago experienced a series of unique and magnificent scenes as it broadcast all of Spain's matches from the round of 16 onward. In fact, more than 32,000 people followed the final, which ended with Spain's victory, from the heart of Zaragoza in an image that went around the world.
"Believe me, images were reaching us in the United States of the atmosphere throughout Spain, and especially here in Pilar Square. It was incredible to see this square packed with people sharing and feeling the same emotion, the same pride in being Spanish and defending a shirt that represents us all," the Riojan coach said as he left the Basilica, where he had been responsible for presenting the trophy to Our Lady.
PLAYING IN ZARAGOZA
Looking ahead, Luis de la Fuente also made clear his desire for the Spanish national team to play again in the Aragonese capital with the support of Zaragoza's fans: "It is a historic city and, in footballing terms, a fantastic one. It would be a wonderful venue for us to come here and play with our national team."
