Unai Simón and Luis de la Fuente Scoop Top Honours in London

Spanish football enjoyed a memorable evening at the London Palladium as national team head coach Luis de la Fuente and goalkeeper Unai Simón both secured major individual recognition at the awards gala organised by France Football.

Simón walked away with the Yashin Trophy as the world’s best goalkeeper, crowning an extraordinary era of success following Spain’s triumphs at the European Championship, the Nations League, and the World Cup. The Athletic Club shot-stopper conceded only one goal across the entire World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, while setting an all-time tournament record of 650 consecutive minutes without conceding.

"It’s an honor. When you’re a kid, you never imagine you’ll get this far."

Unai Simón

De la Fuente Crowned Best Coach

Spain boss Luis de la Fuente was awarded the Johan Cruyff Trophy as the world's best coach. At 65 years old, De la Fuente finished ahead of fellow finalists Luis Enrique, Mikel Arteta, Unai Emery, and Vincent Kompany. The honour celebrates a remarkable tenure that has propelled Spain to the top of the FIFA rankings while holding the European, Olympic, and world titles simultaneously.

Joined in London by a Spanish soccer federation delegation including president Rafael Louzán, general secretary Álvaro de Miguel, and sporting director Aitor Karanka, De la Fuente was recognised for the steady leadership and collective spirit that have defined his reign since taking charge of the senior national side. For both Simón and De la Fuente, the ceremony in England marked a well-deserved individual pinnacle.