Luis de la Fuente’s Spain is one of the most exciting sides at Euro 2024. It wasn’t easy for de la Fuente to take over from Luis Enrique and get Spain to play the right brand of football again. However, the 62-year-old announced himself in style by winning the National League, his first tournament in charge. His Spanish team has been impressive and at the Euros, they have the platform to showcase their talent to everyone worldwide.

A major problem for Spain at Euro 2020 and the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 was their lack of cutting-edge in front of goal. Notably, La Roja was eliminated via penalties on both occasions. Does the current squad have the difference makers Spain previously missed? Who are the major absentees from previous tournaments? Let’s analyze Spain’s squad for Euro 2024.

What’s changed from Euro 2020?

The biggest difference between the two sides is the change in coaching personnel. Luis de la Fuente has exceeded all expectations and delivered more trophies than Enrique did. His squad is noticeably different from his predecessor.

Ins from Euro 2020-Unai Simon, Aymeric Laporte, Pedri, Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Alvaro Morata, Dani Olmo, Mikel Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres.

Outs from Euro 2020 goalkeepers–David de Gea, Robert Sanchez.

Defenders-Jose Gaya, Jordi Alba, Pau Torres, Eric Garcia, Diego Llorente, Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Llorente

Midfielders-Sergio Busquets, Thiago, Koke

Forwards-Ferran Torres, Adama Traore, Pablo Sarabia

The young stars expected to dazzle for La Roja at Euro 2024

The most exciting talent in the current Spanish squad is undoubtedly Lamine Yamal. The youngster has already earned shoutouts of comparison with Lionel Messi. However, if Spain has to win Euro 2024, they need more than Lamine Yamal. Fortunately, Pedri’s recent form has been quite promising. After an injury-plagued season, the midfielder was back to his best against Northern Ireland and scored his first goal for the country.

Another promising midfield talent is Fermin Lopez. His brawn perfectly compliments Pedri’s brains. Can the trio make Spain dominant again on the international scene? Let’s wait and watch.

Luis de la Fuente’s expected starting XI

Spain XI (4-3-3): Unai Simon; Carvajal, Laporte, Le Normand, Grimaldo; Rodri, Zubimendi, Fabian Ruiz; Olmo,Lamine Yamal, Morata.

However, it is also possible that the coach could opt for a more attacking formation with Pedri instead of Zubimendi. Likewise, Nico Williams is a player with the X-factor who can make the XI instead of Olmo if Spain prefers a direct approach.

Spain’s players to watch out for at Euro 2024

While Alvaro Morata is the captain, Rodri Hernandez is the general on the pitch. The Manchester City star is one of the best midfielders in the world and now has goal-scoring ability in his armory. If Spain is to go deep, their midfield ace has to be in top form.

Furthermore, Rodri’s former teammate Aymeric Laporte also has an important role. Spain is not a team reliant on physicality and it will be Laporte’s job to command the defense.

What is your prediction for Spain at Euro 2024? Let us know in the comments below.