The team that Spain was permitted to field for the Cyprus clash drew attention for its balance and readiness.
The Spanish national team travels to Cyprus next Thursday, October 16 at 6:00 PM at the Alphamega Stadium for the ninth match of the Euro 2024 qualifiers. La Roja have already secured a place in the tournament and will aim to finish first in the group to secure a coveted spot in the continental finals next summer. The progression has been steady, with tactical discipline and emerging talent shaping the plan as they chase top seeding.
Keep up with live coverage of Cyprus vs. Spain from the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign here
The lineups for Cyprus vs. the Spanish national team in the German Euro 2024 qualifying phase: starting XI, call-ups and substitutes
There is an expectation that the coach will not overhaul the core group that topped the group during this qualifying phase, simply because the goal has already been reached. The emphasis will be on maintaining cohesion while managing fatigue and giving a few players a chance to contribute without disrupting the established style of play.
Gaya and Ferran Torres faced doubt after their final training session away from the squad before travel. This could influence the selection as the coach weighs balance and option variety at the back and in attack.
In this scenario, a potential Spain lineup against Cyprus might feature Unai Simón in goal, Carvajal, Le Normand, Pau Torres, and a likely debut for Grimaldo if Gayà cannot participate. In midfield, Gavi and Rodrigo could be joined by Fabián Ruiz, Nico Williams, Morata, and Oyarzabal, with flexibility to adjust based on fitness and tactical needs.
The call from Spain
The list includes Riquelme, Grimaldo, Aleix García and Remiro, alongside the return of Gayá and Iñigo Martínez. The squad does not feature Isco or Pedri this time, and several names such as Laporte, Balde, Ansu Fati, Pino, and Bryan Zaragoza are not included by technical decision. This hints at a measured approach that prioritizes shape and depth over altering an already successful framework.
Goalkeepers: Unai Simón, David Raya and Álex Remiro.
Defenses: Carvajal, Jesús Navas, Íñigo Martínez, Pau Torres, Le Normand, David García, Gayá, Grimaldo.
Midfielders: Rodrigo, Zubimendi, Gavi, Mikel Merino, Fabián Ruiz, Sancet, Rodrigo Riquelme and Aleix García.
Forwards: Morata, Joselu, Ferran Torres, Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal and Oyarzabal.
Note: This overview reflects the planned setup and the players mentioned in recent discussions. It aligns with the broader strategy Spain has employed to maximize results while integrating promising younger talents into a stable unit. The emphasis remains on maintaining a compact defense, dynamic midfield transitions, and clinical finishing in attack.