Former Slovak Goalkeeper Experiences World Cup Final Frenzy. Yamal? Spain's Priority is Different

Marián Kelemen spent two seasons in the holiday paradise of Tenerife, followed by stints in Vecindario and Numancia. For him, Spain isn't just a source of fond memories.

The former excellent goalkeeper, who also played for Slovan Bratislava, Bursaspor, and Aris Thessaloniki, and celebrated a Polish title with Slask Wroclaw, fell so deeply in love with the Iberian Peninsula that he continues to spend a significant amount of time there even after retiring as a professional footballer.

He's currently experiencing firsthand the Spanish frenzy surrounding their qualification for the 2026 World Cup final and their chance to clinch a second title.

"The Spanish team is one of the best in the world, very well-assembled. They have prominent individual talents, but the most important thing for them is the team, not the individuals," Kelemen emphasized in an interview for ŠPORT.sk.

What's the atmosphere like in Spain ahead of the World Cup final?

"Very good. I'd even say excellent. At the same time, there are high expectations. The Spanish are confident, but it's not over the top."

They reached the final quite dominantly, overcoming France, who many considered the biggest favorites of the tournament. Were you surprised by such a smooth run?

"Not really. In terms of individual talent, France might have looked better on paper, but not as a collective team. I'm very familiar with Spanish football, so it didn't surprise me at all.

I believe they have one of the best teams in the world, very well-structured. They boast significant individual talents like Lamine Yamal and others, but the team always comes first. The Spanish have been playing fantastic football for many years, and their progression to the World Cup final is absolutely deserved."

What is the greatest strength of the Spanish team? Is it their midfield, which is arguably the best in the world?

"It's their collective spirit, their midfield, and their understanding of football, which stems from their youth development. They consistently build high-level teams, always dominating possession and dictating the game. Anything can happen, but I always consider them one of, if not the biggest, favorites for the title."

Many perceive the Spanish primarily through their creativity, but they also possess an excellent defense. So far in the tournament, they've conceded only one goal in seven matches. What do you think about this aspect of their game?

"As a team, they have an outstanding pressing game; they immediately try to win the ball back after losing it. You'll never see the Spanish sit back and 'park the bus.' They love to have possession and are patient.

They are well-balanced, and they have a wealth of talent to choose from. The fact that Pedri started recent matches on the bench illustrates this. When you add it all up, the result is Spain in the World Cup final. We'll see how it turns out."

What about the Spanish offense? Who do you consider their key players?

"Certainly Oyarzabal, who scores goals. They also have super-subs and an excellent bench, so they can make changes during a match without affecting performance because it's perfectly balanced. Yamal is just getting started and hasn't fully showcased his qualities yet. Perhaps he will in the final.

Overall, for the Spanish, when it comes to tactics, they have clear instructions and they stick to their objective. They know what to play and are very well prepared."

Lamine Yamal hasn't been as dominant in this championship as we're used to seeing him at Barcelona. However, as the tournament progresses, he seems to be coming alive. In the semi-final, he won a penalty for his team and was very visible. How are his performances being evaluated in Spain?

"As I mentioned, the important thing is that every star adapts to the team's needs. It's about teamwork and everyone adhering to the coach's tactical instructions. Pau Cubarsí, Rodri, and others are also excellent. However, the Spanish don't focus on individual players; their priority is the entire team."

Is Mikel Merino currently the best super-sub in the world?

"You could say that. Essentially, every time he's come into the game, he's made an impact. Mikel Oyarzabal from Real Sociedad is having a very good tournament in terms of goal-scoring and overall statistics, but they don't focus on who scores the goals. The foundation is fulfilling tactical requirements and the coach's instructions. The long-term results speak for themselves."

Although Spanish football has long been among the absolute elite, the arrival of coach Luis de la Fuente has perhaps elevated the national team to an even higher level. What do you see as his greatest contribution?

"He's brought in players who perfectly fit his vision. With the players he's chosen, everything clicks perfectly, so his selection appears brilliant. He's built a truly good team, and he deserves applause for that."

How do you see the cards dealt in the final?

"A tough question. It's between two Hispanic teams, and Argentina also has a strong team spirit. The final pairing is absolutely deserved. I think Spain has a slight edge as a team, but with Argentina and Lionel Messi, you never know what might happen. I don't have a favorite; I think it will be very close."

The Spanish could win the World Cup title after 16 years. Do you see parallels with the 2010 squad, which Andrés Iniesta immortalized with his extra-time goal in the final against the Netherlands?

"I think it's a slightly different team; the current one is even more balanced. Although I'm not saying the previous one, with players like Iniesta, Xavi, Xabi Alonso, and other stars, wasn't... There are certainly similarities, so parallels could be drawn."

Let's talk about you. You're still involved in football and constantly return to Spain. Why?

"After my playing career, I became an agent, and I have a FIFA license. So, it's mainly about management and representation. And why Spain again? I fell in love with this country when I played here, whether in Tenerife or Numancia. That's why."

We caught up with you in Spain again. Where exactly?

"In Valencia."

How are you doing as an agent? Which players are in your portfolio?

"You could say I'm still getting started. I've already achieved some things. Among the players I represent is Slovak youth international Adam Žulevič, who plays for Genoa. I also have Spaniards like Brian Peña from FC Riga and Samuel Ramos, who recently moved from Michalovce to Scotland. And other players as well."