Morata: “Of course I would like De la Fuente to continue”
Spain heads into the final Euro 2024 qualifying weekend with the goal of sealing top spot in Group A and securing a favorable seed for the Hamburg draw on December 2. The clash against Georgia at Nuevo Zorrilla in Valladolid is more about confidence and staying healthy than risk, especially after Mikel Oyarzabal’s knockout blow. A single point would crown La Roja as group leaders and guarantee a seed ahead of heavyweights Germany, France, and Portugal in the next stage.
Spain only needs a point in this match, having already shown domination within the group. A dominant 7-1 victory over Georgia in Tbilisi demonstrated the squad’s depth and firepower, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia posing a constant threat for Georgia. Spain has already booked a finals ticket thanks to strong group performances, with Scotland following as the other direct qualifier in the pool.
Renewed squad
Coach Luis de la Fuente is preparing to rotate to conserve energy and prevent fatigue across the squad. After the setback in Cyprus, prudence will guide selections, with as many as ten changes hoped for from the Limassol lineup while maintaining competitiveness for the match.
There is talk that Le Normad could earn a recall after a limited 45-minute stint in Cyprus. The plan allows flexibility across the backline and midfield, with the central axis on the right adaptable if needed. Iñigo Martínez is expected to return on the left wing after eight months away from the national team.
Gayà’s fitness is central to the discussion; a normal training week would reassure his involvement, with Grimaldo a backup option if concerns arise. The Valencian full-back has been pivotal, including contributing a goal assist against Cyprus.
End to Lamine case
Lamine Yamal is poised to join as a substitute but will see minutes as De la Fuente follows a planned rotation, integrating the Barcelona youngster in his fourth cap for La Roja. The youth product’s ongoing involvement signals his growing role and readiness to help Spain maintain momentum late in matches.
At just 16, Lamine continues to soak in senior experience, blending with teammates and carving out a future reference point for Spain’s national setup heading into the 2024 European Championship.
Gavi’s role remains a talking point. The Barcelona midfielder has started every match since his Nations League debut two years ago and is expected to be rested for this game. De la Fuente weighs current form and long-term development while safeguarding his best players for the tournament.
p>Spain’s next duty after this match is a March 2024 friendly against Brazil at the Santiago Bernabéu, framed around a campaign against racism. The federation is exploring additional fixtures in this window to keep the squad sharp ahead of the European Championship, with 12 teams contending for the remaining three finals spots.
Repercussions of the Playoffs
The playoff format now hinges on Nations League standings, determining which teams reach the playoff path. This means teams once seen as outsiders, such as Poland under Lewandowski, retain a route to qualification even after slipping from direct group progression.
Euro 2024 is set to begin in Munich on June 14, with the tournament wrapping up about a month later in Berlin. Spain has rebuilt trust in its manager and remains among the contenders capable of challenging for the title, drawing on a history of European success and a deep talent pool.
Possible lineups
Spain: Unai Simón, Carvajal, Le Normand, Iñigo Martínez, Gayà, Rodri, Fabián, Sancet, Ferran Torres, Morata, Nico Williams
Georgia: Mamardashvili; Shengelia, Luka Lochoshvili, Kashia, Kvirkvelia, Kakabadze, Kvaratskhelia, Kochorashvili, Kvekveskiri, Giorgi Chakvetadze, Mikautadze
Referee: Ovidiu Hategan (Romania)
Stadium: Nuevo Zorrilla
Kick-off: 20:45
Television: La1