How the Paris Saint-Germain Midfielder Balances Luis de la Fuente's Tactical System
Before launching a campaign he hoped would lead to consecutive major tournament finals, Spain manager Luis de la Fuente confidently claimed he possessed the best midfielders in the world. Striking a tactical balance with stars like Rodri, Pedri, and Dani Olmo required an expert balancing act, ultimately leading him to restore Paris Saint-Germain's Fabian Ruiz to the starting lineup for the crucial knockout rounds.
The 30-year-old midfielder has proven to be an indispensable asset in Spain's 4-3-3 formation, scoring in the 2-1 quarter-final victory over Belgium before delivering a masterclass against France. Operating as a left-footed counterpart to Manchester City's Rodri, Ruiz maintains structural integrity while covering low-intensity kilometers through elite spatial awareness, body orientation, and quick decision-making under high pressure.
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During the semi-final triumph against Les Bleus, Ruiz demonstrated his versatility by seamlessly occupying three different positions within a single 30-second sequence to unlock the opposition's high press. His ability to drop deep as a third central defender or push between the lines offered unique passing angles that perfectly complemented his right-footed teammates in the double pivot.
Beyond his technical fluidity, the 188cm midfielder offers crucial defensive security that allows left-back Marc Cucurella to overlap aggressively without exposing the backline. As Spain prepares for the World Cup final on Sunday, Ruiz remains the vital tactical piston capable of dismantling defensive blocks and cementing his reputation as international football's true master of space.