Luis de la Fuente’s Spain squad is one of the most nuanced and well-rounded at Euro 2024. A smooth blend of youth and experience, as well as a wide variety of talent, it’s not bold to say that De la Fuente’s side will be looking for more than mediocrity in Germany, with eye-catching odds of 9.00 to go all the way.
The manager has carefully curated a group of players to fit in with this ethos, but with so much quality, how do you fit it all into one team? We’re going to take you through what we think is Spain’s strongest side ahead of their group stage opener against Croatia.
NetBet is the first name in sports betting and brings you all of the best odds and markets throughout the incredible summer of sport. If you want to get involved in the action, make your Euro 2024 bet work for you with our Correct Score Predictor. Giving you the opportunity to use your football knowhow to win up to £1 million.
Formation – 4-3-3
Goalkeeper – Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao)
There is a strong shout for Premier League Golden Glove winner David Raya for this spot. However, strength is also based on familiarity and Simon is the go-to man for his manager. In addition to being composed with the ball at his feet and an athletic stopper, he kept 17 clean sheets for Bilbao in 2023-24 – one more than Raya, in arguably a weaker defensive side.
Right-Back – Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid)
Carvajal, a scorer and Man of the Match in the recent Champions League final, the Real Madrid veteran will definitely be Spain’s preferred option this summer. Carvajal still has what it takes to shut down the best wingers on the planet and his never-say-die attitude is perfect for the international stage.
Centre-Back – Robin Le Normand (Real Sociedad)
A born leader, Le Normand is a must-have on the pitch for Spain. A fierce tackler, dominant in aerial battles and an experienced commander at the back, he is also highly rated for his ability on the ball – a key attribute for any La Roja side.
Centre-Back – Aymeric Laporte (Al-Nassr)
Some may feel a move to Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League is justification for the former Manchester City man to lose his spot. But at the end of the day, as far as quality is concerned, there aren’t many better in world football than Laporte – and one season in Saudi Arabia doesn’t change that. He fits Spain’s system perfectly. Calm on the ball with an exceptional range of passing, he is key to their progression of play and should feature heavily at Euro 2024.
Left-Back – Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen)
After the insane season Bayer Leverkusen have just had, in which Grimaldo was instrumental, it would be difficult to leave him out. With 12 goals and 19 assists in all competitions, a defender with his attacking ability is almost unheard of. The only questions are if he suits the style of football Spain want to play and if his inclusion would cause problems due to the cover needed for his offensive exploits. If Grimaldo is unable to control his attacking impulses, options such as Marc Cucurella may be considered.
Centre Midfield – Rodri (Manchester City)
The first name on the team sheet for any manager lucky enough to have the City man at their disposal. Rodri is probably the best midfielder in the world and will be the focus of Spain’s play this summer. He controls the tempo in all areas of the pitch with slick and precise passing, is able to minimise opposition attacks through smart positional play and even pops up frequently with important goals in high-pressure situations. This pick is absolutely not up for discussion, we expect Rodri to start all of Spain’s games.
Centre Midfield – Pedri (Barcelona)
Another important part of this Spain side is youngster Pedri. The 21-year-old Barca ace is a already a big-game player, cementing himself as one of the best in the business. His composure on the ball is a sight to behold with a magical passing range to boot. He will be the envy of other managers when he takes to the pitch this summer, but it’s impossible to stay angry when you watch footballing talent at its best.
Centre Midfield – Fabian Ruiz (PSG)
A spot that may be up for contention is the third role in midfield. Alongside Rodri and Pedri, it’s hard to stand out in the middle for Spain but we think that Ruiz is up to the task. A consistent starter for French champions PSG, his creative play is a joy to watch and he finds passes that many midfielders wouldn’t even see. Another option could be Martin Zubimendi, which would allow a more advanced role for Pedri.
Right Wing – Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
At just 16 years old, Yamal’s inclusion in Spain’s squad is unbelievably impressive – and we believe he’s not there just to take make up numbers. Yamal put up seven goals and 10 assists for Barcelona in 2023-24 and encompasses everything you could want in a winger. Fast and dynamic, he is direct at all times and will no doubt give be giving defenders nightmares. Spain also have a solid backup option in the form of Nico Williams, who we definitely expect to feature in the tournament.
Striker – Alvaro Morata (Atletico Madrid)
As Spain’s only real out-and-out No9 option, Morata looks a sure-fire starter this summer. But that’s not to say he does not deserve his spot. Morata has played for some of Europe’s best sides, scoring goals in the top leagues and competitions. Currently plying his trade at Atletico, he managed a solid 15 goals and four assists in 2023-24. Alternatively, Real Madrid’s Champions League hero Joselu could be considered for the role, him or Real Sociedad’s Mikel Oyarzabal.
Left Wing – Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig)
Leipzig’s Olmo is one of Spain’s key creative outlets. Intelligent on the ball and with the ability to create chances from any situation, he is also capable of scoring goals aplenty. With the attacking talent in this team, Olmo will be key in linking it together and converting Spain’s massive possession percentage into chances and, more importantly, goals. Williams will also be in contention for this spot, though, his versatility and adaptability allowing him to be effective and dangerous from both sides.
Spain Euros Betting Tips
*Odds are correct at time of publication and subject to change
Spain to win Group B – 1.80
Pedri to win Young Player of the Tournament – 11.00
Alvaro Morata to be Spain’s top scorer – 3.50
When you choose NetBet Sport, you can enjoy a whole range of top-quality sports and markets. Whatever you choose, always remember to bet responsibly. Here at NetBet, player wellbeing is our number one priority – check out our Responsible Gambling tips and tools page for more information. When the fun stops, stop.
