Spain’s National Team Approaches the Finalissima Amid Doubts and Injuries
The team that conquered Europe in Berlin is now racing against injuries, lack of match rhythm and tactical decisions. The Finalissima is already on the horizon.
A Champion Now Walking a Tightrope
The lineup that led Spain to lift the European Championship in Berlin seemed set to begin a long, dominant cycle. However, just weeks before the Finalissima against Argentina in Doha, the outlook is far less stable than Luis de la Fuente might have hoped.
The head coach has consistently insisted that Spain’s depth allows them to absorb any absence. In reality, half of his starting XI is dealing with complex situations: recurring injuries, limited playing time, or reduced roles at club level.
Defense: Fragile Certainties and Warning Signs
In goal, Unai Simón remains the undisputed choice. His leadership and consistency keep him firmly in place, although the rise of Joan García has sparked external debate that didn’t exist a year ago.
At right-back, Dani Carvajal is a concern. The defender is determined to reach the World Cup, but his season has lacked continuity. If he regains competitive rhythm, he is unquestioned; if not, his place could be at risk.
In central defense, Aymeric Laporte has returned after several weeks out. He is the natural leader at the back, and his recovery is crucial both tactically and emotionally. More delicate is the case of Le Normand, who has lost prominence at Atlético and no longer carries the same positive momentum that once cemented his role in the national team.
On the left, Cucurella is dealing with muscular discomfort. He is vital for his energy and attacking width, but if he is not fully fit, alternatives like Balde do not offer exactly the same balance.
Midfield: Between Stability and Uncertainty
The biggest positive is Rodri. After his serious knee injury in September 2024, he is once again showing authority. He is the tactical anchor of the team, and his return significantly raises Spain’s competitive ceiling.
Alongside him, Zubimendi has grown into a reliable option. The main concern lies with Fabián Ruiz, who has been sidelined for weeks with a knee issue. His lack of rhythm is worrying in a tournament where fine margins decide everything.
The confirmed absence of Mikel Merino further reduces physical and tactical options in midfield. Dani Olmo, a starter in the Euro final, has finally strung together consistent appearances — vital for a player historically hampered by injuries. Pedri, currently sidelined, is expected to recover in time if no setbacks occur.
Attack: Youthful Talent and Structural Doubts
Up front, Lamine Yamal is once again raising his level after overcoming physical issues. He has become the new face of the national team, and his growth in goals and assists fuels optimism.
The situation of Nico Williams is more troubling. Persistent pubalgia has limited his explosiveness, one of his key strengths. He continues to play through pain, and his performances have inevitably suffered. Time is not on his side.
Then there is Álvaro Morata, perhaps the most uncertain case. Captain during the Euro triumph, he now lacks solid arguments to reclaim his place with full confidence. Limited continuity and influence at club level generate real doubts about his role in the upcoming tournament.
A Finalissima at the Worst Possible Time
The XI that conquered Europe is not broken, but it is no longer the impenetrable block it once seemed. Between injuries, limited competitive rhythm, and shifting roles, Luis de la Fuente faces the challenge of rebuilding certainty without losing identity.
The talent is there. The hierarchy remains. But the margin for error is razor thin. And the champion no longer arrives as solid as before.
