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Defenders Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand are set to return from suspension for the final
Published : 12 Jul 2024, 07:24 PM
There is little mystery to the starting 11 manager Luis de la Fuente is likely to field for the final. Defenders Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand are set to return from suspension while attacking midfielder Dani Olmo should keep his starting role replacing Pedri, who is out with a knee injury.
Unai Simon (goalkeeper), 27 - Known for his level-headed leadership, Simon is one of De la Fuente’s most trusted soldiers who arrived in Germany as LaLiga’s goalkeeper of the season helping Athletic Bilbao to a top-five finish. An excellent shot-stopper known for making himself big in penalties, Simon has struggled sometimes with the ball at his feet.
Dani Carvajal (defender), 32 - He doesn't wear the armband, but everybody knows in Spain that six-time Champions League winner Carvajal is the boss. His absence was felt early in the semi-final, with France scoring by exploiting the right side of Spain's defence. Still in his prime, he has a natural connection with teenager Lamine Yamal, with both a constant menace running up and down the right channel.
Aymeric Laporte (defender), 30 - His selection was a gamble after a full season in Saudi Arabia following his move from Manchester City. However, it has paid off as the reinvigorated Laporte has been the heart and soul of Spain's defence throughout the tournament. A vocal leader with the ability to bring the ball forward being a key element that helps Spain to excel in quick transitions and counter attacks.
Robin Le Normand (defender), 27 - His physical presence is impressive and complements perfectly with Laporte’s flair in the middle of a Spanish defence that rarely makes mistakes. He has been rock solid in keeping things simple, but has yet to face a powerful striker like Harry Kane in this tournament.
Marc Cucurella (defender), 25 - The high-energy Cucurella has been one of the brightest spots of Spain's campaign. His self-sacrifice and relentless effort are key in allowing their defence to regroup quickly, rarely getting exposed in long balls from counter attacks. His weakness has been defending corners and crosses inside the box.
Rodri (midfield), 28 - The pillar. The player Pep Guardiola said is "the best midfielder in the world, by far" and who coach De la Fuente called "the perfect computer", Rodri is the link that brings all the other pieces together. Solid and calm with his defending and precise passing, he adds much-needed confidence that frees his teammates to apply their high-pressing. He also has a cannon of a right foot.
Fabian Ruiz (midfield), 28 - A central midfielder who has struggled to hold down a starting place at Paris St Germain and similarly in the national team, Fabian has come out of the shadows to become Spain's motor and one of the best players overall in the Euros. He has been the complete package, box to box, with a powerful left-foot from long distance.
Dani Olmo (midfielder), 26 - From substitute to hero after bagging a goal and an assist to help Spain beat Germany in the quarter-final after Pedri was forced out with a serious knee injury. Olmo scored the winner against France proving why he has been one of De la Fuente's favourites. A versatile attacker, he can play in almost all positions up-front, with quick dribbles and spot-on shooting.
Lamine Yamal (forward), 16 - The most exciting player of the team, Spain's teenage sensation became the youngest goalscorer in Euros history with a stunning curling shot from long range against France and has been a nightmare for rival teams running up and down the right channel.
Nico Williams (forward), 22 - Electric Nico and Yamal give Spain a one-two punch from both wings. An explosive and daring attacker, Nico's diagonal runs from the left that often finish with a cut inside and a right-footed shot aiming to the far post are one of Spain’s most dangerous weapons.
Alvaro Morata (forward), 31 - Their captain is arguably Spain's only liability. Lacking cutting edge, agility and explosion, Morata is a hard working forward that made his presence felt so far by an unselfish effort in pressing. His inability to nail down shots on target could be costly for Spain if they fall behind.
