Spain might be playing a beautiful art, which could be approved by legends like Johan Cruyff himself. The art in context here is Football.
La Roja can without any major doubts be placed among the top 3 footballing nations in the world. Playing a brand of football that articulates the past and blends in with the modern day tactical and high speed game, is more than just a match. It is an art that promises high enthusiasm and entertainment. But what makes this team so fine- the fact that a young squad with kids in their teens and early 20s, are out there enjoying themselves to the fullest trying to reclaim their country’s lost glory.
Football fanatics across the world could genuinely appreciate Spain’s golden generation that broke most records and easily earned the title of “Greatest International Team” to ever exist. A generation that saw Xavi, Iniesta, Busquets and Xabi boss the midfield like they were playing in their backyard. A defensive unit of Ramos, Pique and Puyol who besides being aggressive, were tactically disciplined, were complimented by the greatest Spanish goalkeeper, Iker Casillas. A team that played like one, keeping aside the external noise of every player being a superstar in their own ways. From winning back to back Euros, sandwiching the country’s only World Cup trophy, this team defined the term “Dominance” as a ruthless team that scored goals, but created a buildup so precise, it changed the view and idea of football fans. A tactical masterclass as explained by Pep Guardiola as “Take the ball, pass the ball, take the ball, pass the ball”, worked wonders for the team.
The downward spiral of this team was rather shocking than inevitable. Following a period laid with silverware, the team displayed a lack of chemistry and were unrecognisable, becoming a shadow of their previous selves. A group stage exit at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, following the 5-1 dismantling of the team at hands of the Dutch. R/o16 exits at Euros 2016 and FIFA 2018, compelled the federation to make some tough calls.
Maestro Luis Enrique, needs to be acknowledged for his work in rebuilding this team prior to the arrival of Luis de la Fuente. Enrique gave a chance to a string of young talents- Pedri, Nico Williams, Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres. He managed to guide the team to the semi finals of the 2020 European Championship, where they lost to eventual champions Italy. Following a disastrous World Cup campaign in Qatar 2022, being knocked out by Morocco, Enrique decided to step down from his position, paving the way for de la Fuente.
Fast forward to 2025, Spain are the reigning Euro champions as they beat Croatia, Italy, Germany, France and England to recapture their throne and crown themselves their 4th Euros title, making them the most successful country at the Euros in the process. Coach Luis de la Fuente, having worked with the U-23 Spanish teams, cracked the code to success.
Currently, the Spanish team is playing in the World Cup qualifiers. Having won their first match against Bulgaria 3-0, the Spaniards gave a statement win against Turkey with a 6-0 rout, in a hostile stadium, thereby asserting their dominance. The team has a competent and young keeper in Unai Simon, with Arsenal’s main man between the sticks being their backup. The defense of Dean Hujsen and Robin Le Normand, seems composed and mature. Madrid star Hujsen is set to partner with Barca boy Pau Cubarsi in the near future, potentially recreating the successful duo of Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique a decade back. Full backs Marc Cucurella, Alejandro Balde, Pedro Porro will be key in attack as they await the return of the highly regarded and experienced Dani Carvajal.
La Roja is blessed with a stacked and versatile midfield. Pedri is considered as the best midfielder in the world currently. Mikel Merino is coming off a hat-trick against Turkey and Martin Zubimendi is proving himself as a worthy backup to defensive midfielder Rodri. Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez are set to compete for the attacking midfielder position.
The strikers can be rotated between Alvaro Morata, Mikel Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres. But the main attraction of this team are their star wingers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. The young duo is flamboyant, electric and highly skillful. They bring depth to the game and are handing out sleepless nights to defenders and fullbacks. Nico Williams scored the opening goal in the Euros Final in 2024 and Lamine Yamal was awarded the best young player of the tournament. Both these talents are promising and look forward to rewriting Spain’s legacy in modern day football. The return of Rodri, player of the tournament at Euro 2024 and Dani Carvajal will only make this team better and feared.
Questions were raised after Spain’s defeat to Portugal in the Nations League final in June 2025, but the team seems to have responded in a positive manner. Looking at the current scenario, Portugal given their high pressing game and France with their potential best forward lineup in the world, can easily be considered as the biggest threats and hindrance to this Spanish juggernaut.
Aadi's Sports Corner 
Leave a comment