Fabian Ruiz has gone from being one of Spain's regular midfield starters to a player Luis de la Fuente now uses in shorter spells, a shift that has become one of the more notable selection changes of the World Cup.
Before Spain's 0-0 draw with Cape Verde, Ruiz had been a starter for the past two years and was widely expected to help form a midfield trio with Rodri and Pedri. But after that stalemate, de la Fuente reshaped the side and Ruiz lost his place in the lineup.
How much Ruiz has played since then
Ruiz started only the opener against Cape Verde. Since then, his minutes have been limited: 20 minutes in Spain's 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia, 30 minutes in the 1-0 victory over Uruguay, and late cameos against Austria and Portugal in the 89th and 85th minutes, respectively.
That adds up to a very different role for a player who had been central to Spain's plans. Ruiz had also missed Qatar under Luis Enrique and later dealt with a knee injury, making his current run in the team another test of patience as well as form.
Ruiz keeps the focus on the group
Even with his reduced role, Ruiz has stayed calm about the situation. He said he and the coach sometimes joke with team-mates that they should pick him even if he is injured, but his main message has been simple: it is not important who plays, only that the team supports each other.
That attitude fits the broader picture for Spain, who remain unbeaten in 47 matches and have continued to rotate the midfield without losing control. Ruiz's minutes may be down, but he still remains part of a squad that has the depth to change shape without changing its standards.
There was even a lighter training-ground moment in Chattanooga, where Ruiz tried a few minutes in goal. It is a small detail, but it reflects the relaxed mood around a player who has not complained despite the change in status.
For now, Ruiz appears to be a substitute option rather than a guaranteed starter. Still, his experience and versatility keep him in the conversation whenever Spain need another calm presence in midfield.
