The report says De la Fuente was seriously discussed after Pioli’s five-year spell ended. His candidacy did not progress, partly because he was preparing Spain for Euro 2024.
That reasoning was understandable. International managers rarely leave before a major tournament, and Milan’s hierarchy was seeking a coach for an immediate club rebuild. Yet hindsight has made the decision harder to ignore. Spain went on to win the European Championship, while Milan’s dugout has since become a symbol of uncertainty.
De la Fuente’s progress has followed a clear path through the Spanish federation. Before taking the senior role, he won European titles with the Under-19 and Under-21 teams and led the Olympic side to silver at Tokyo 2020.
His senior record has strengthened that case. Spain won the Nations League, then added the European Championship, and is now reportedly preparing for a World Cup final against Argentina.
The team’s success has not depended solely on headline names such as Lamine Yamal or Rodri. De la Fuente has maintained a clear collective structure, backed players through difficult selection debates and produced a side capable of controlling matches without becoming predictable.
Milan’s decision was not irrational at the time. De la Fuente was focused on Spain, and club management demands differ sharply from tournament football. But the contrast is now stark: Spain has enjoyed continuity and silverware, while Milan has changed direction in the dugout and slipped outside the Champions League places.
The next test will come on two fronts. De la Fuente’s World Cup final will define the latest stage of his rise, while Milan’s next managerial decisions will show whether the club has finally found the stability it missed in 2024.