Spain conducted its third training session at the Ciudad del Fútbol de Las Rozas, intensifying preparations for the upcoming match against Norway in Malaga on Saturday and for Eurocup Germany 2024. The session focused on sharpening tactics, movement off the ball, and pressing intensity to counter a compact opponent.
Relating to
- De la Fuente’s balance game
- 1×1 of De la Fuente’s coaching team
Haaland injured and will not play at the Spanish team’s premier under De la Fuente
Denis Iglesias
Luis de la Fuente is already assembling the roster, with the notable absence of Erling Haaland looming as Scandinavia prepares to face the Spanish side. The coach emphasized controlling the tempo with a purposeful, forward-looking approach and maintaining a flexible attack.
His approach features more players entering the box to increase goal-scoring threats. The distinction from recent years lies in building a stronger collective, focusing on quick finishing and efficient ball circulation rather than an overreliance on possession alone, a reminder of past campaigns such as the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
More arrivals
De la Fuente aims to reach the target with additional runners. The plan in attack is to deploy a 4-3-3 formation, while the defensive shape shifts to 4-2-3-1.
From the outset, goalkeeper Kepa will organize a back four. Carvajal, Nacho, Laporte, or Iñigo Martínez will line up depending on fitness and form, with Aquarius anchoring the midfield. Rodri remains the anchor in front of the defense, melding ball control with the readiness to join the attack at the right moments, while Mikel Merino could act as a supporting engine.
Ceballos may partner as another interior, with Gavi taking a higher, more advanced role on the left. The two natural forwards expected to lead the charge are Morata and Aspas, both called to contribute more goals than in some previous campaigns under Luis Enrique, aligning with a more direct threat profile.
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The main question to resolve in the final practice sessions is whether a more stable winger can be deployed. Dani Olmo or Nico Williams are likely options, with one midfielder potentially being sacrificed to enhance width and pace on the flanks.
In any case, one line-up De la Fuente is weighing is: Kepa, Carvajal, Nacho, Iñigo Martínez, Balde, Rodri, Merino, Ceballos, Gavi, Morata, and Aspas.