Spain are one of the biggest names heading into Euro 2024, but the two-time champions have yet to make the final since they last lifted the trophy some 12 years ago.
Nevertheless, they remain one of the most feared sides in Europe, and will head into the tournament with an exciting squad, perfectly capable of putting them in the running for success… with the help of an upset of two!
The Manager
The Spanish squad will be overseen in the tournament by manager Luis de la Fuente, the former Spanish U23 boss, who has been in charge since December 8, 2022.
De la Fuente has managed only 10 games, with an 80% win record, however, he has also tasted silverware with Spain’s UEFA Nations League glory coming in June last year, overcoming their Euro 2024 group opponents Croatia on penalties.
He will find his first major tournament to be a much trickier affair, with teams going full tilt, and the pressure mounting.
At 62, there is no doubt that de la Fuente has experience in the game, but what he lacks is experience and understanding of tournament football, and being able to manage the expectations of the team ranked 8th in FIFA’s world rankings, and a fanbase that has seen world domination in the past decade and a half.
The Players
Where Spain’s strengths and weaknesses lie comes in their squad. Gone are the talismanic talents of Sergio Ramos, Xavi, Iniesta, Alonso, and Fernando Torres.
In their place are the likes of Alvaro Morata, Rodri, David Raya, and Alex Grimaldo. There is no doubt, this is a step-down, but there are a couple of shining lights here, namely Gavi and Lamine Yamal.
Gavi
Gavi is no doubt one of the most exciting young talents set to dominate Euro 2024, with the Barcelona midfielder carrying much of the side’s expectations on his young shoulders.
Since breaking into the Barca first team in 2021, the 19-year-old has won a league title and Super Cup at club level, enjoyed Nations League victory, and individually won the 2022 Kopa Trophy and Golden Boy.
One of the greatest players in the world right now, he will be seen as the talisman for La Roja throughout Euro 2024.
Lamine Yamal
Another Barcelona wonderkid in the Spanish ranks, Lamine Yamal will add that much-needed X-factor and unpredictability to the side.
Having spent his entire career at Barcelona, the 16-year-old winger is a product of La Masia, and Spain (and Barca) fans will hope he can become the next superstar of his generation.
Hopes are high for this kid, and with 2 goals in 4 senior appearances at international level, Euro 2024 could be the stage on which he comes of age. We could even be looking at one of the youngest Ballon d’Or winners of all-time, depending on the direction his career takes.
The state is set for some of Spain’s young rising stars to become global phenomenons, but whether this will help the national team to Euro 2024 success is another matter.
Most definitely outsiders, much like Portugal, the Spanish could make some waves, but winning it feels like the longest of long shots.
