The technical work that followed focused on set pieces and finishing, areas where Spain's attention to detail was legendary.
Mateo worked with the goalkeepers on his shooting technique, spent time with the defenders understanding their positioning and communication, and engaged in detailed discussions with the midfielders about timing and movement.
"You have a gift for seeing things before they happen," observed David Silva during a break between drills. "That's not something you can teach that comes from within. But the way you're adapting to our system, the way you're understanding what we need that shows intelligence and maturity."
The session concluded with a full-scale practice match, with Mateo playing in an attacking midfield role alongside some of the most decorated players in world football. The understanding developed quickly, with his movement creating space for others and his vision unlocking defensive structures that had seemed impenetrable.
