Spain's Quiet Revolution: A Summer of Reflection and Future Changes

The defeat in the UEFA Nations League final against Portugal, though painful, has not diminished Luis de la Fuente's conviction about the Spanish national team's potential. The coach, who had seen La Roja lift the same trophy two years prior, reaffirms that the team is "on par with any national team" and that, from September onwards, 90% of the group will maintain its essence. However, the demands of the ultimate goal, the 2026 World Cup, necessitate deep reflection and strategic moves in certain key positions.

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The main enigma hovers over the '9' shirt. Alvaro Morata, captain and a reference point in recent years, faces an uncertain future. His limited playing time in the last three matches and the penalty he missed in the decisive shootout against Portugal have cast doubts on his continuity with the national team. Although De la Fuente values his leadership and career, the final word rests with the striker, who is seeking a conversation with the coach to define his future. The situation is complicated because, internally, there's a recognition of the need for a specialist, even though Oyarzabal, who has performed remarkably as a 'false 9' with 10 goals under De la Fuente, is not a pure striker.

The search for an authentic '9' presents a challenge. Besides Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres – who has also excelled in that position for Barcelona – promising names are emerging. Samu, a more pure center-forward, awaits his moment, while Mateo Joseph, the current U-21 reference playing for Leeds in the English Championship, appears as a future alternative. This situation contrasts with the "penalty" imposed by the coach on those playing in "second-tier competitive leagues," as seen with Joselu (Qatar) and Nacho (Saudi Arabia), whose absences have been notable in recent call-ups, as has Laporte, hampered by injuries and working towards a return to Europe.

In defense, the right-back position is a concern. While awaiting Dani Carvajal's full recovery, a full-back who can make a significant impact has not been found, with Porro and Mingueza failing to solidify their spots. The emergence of Andrés García, formerly of Levante and recently called up to the U-21s from Aston Villa, looks like a promising alternative. On the other hand, the goalkeeper position seems well covered with Joan García on the horizon.

The midfield, however, is the most robust and consolidated line. With the return of Rodri and the presence of established players like Zubimendi, Fabián, Pedri, and Merino, combined with the emergence of young talents such as Fermín, Gavi, Baena, and Isco, Spain boasts enviable quantity and quality. Up front, aside from the doubts surrounding the '9' position, De la Fuente is confident in the abundant quality: Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are untouchable, joined by the currently injured Ayoze, Yeremi Pino, and Dani Olmo, ensuring a bright future and healthy competition for a spot in a national team that, despite a stumble, is already focused on the 2026 World Cup.