Spain hand De la Fuente’s new generation chance to shine against Czechia

Spain have named a youthful starting XI for their Nations League meeting with Czechia, with Luis de la Fuente placing his faith in a new generation determined to establish itself at international level.

Fermin Lopez is the headline name in the line-up and has quickly become a symbol of Spain’s changing team. The midfielder’s “Vamos Espana” message sparked a strong reaction on social media before kick-off.

Spain’s starting XI is:

Goalkeeper: Unai Simon

Defenders: Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella

Midfielders: Martin Zubimendi, Fabian Ruiz, Fermin Lopez

Forwards: Alex Baena, Ferran Torres, Yeremy Pino

De la Fuente’s selection underlines his belief that Spain’s success should be built around a collective structure rather than dependence on one individual. Players who perform consistently in training and matches are being given the opportunity to establish themselves.

The inclusion of Cubarsi, Huijsen and Fermin in the starting side also reflects the scale of Spain’s renewal. The emerging group has already helped the national team win trophies and restore its status among international football’s leading sides.

Unai Simon’s presence carries added importance. The experienced goalkeeper is viewed not only as the player responsible for protecting the goal, but also as a leader on and off the pitch and a source of authority within a youthful squad.

In defence, Cucurella, Cubarsi and Huijsen combine physical strength with the ability to begin attacks from the back, characteristics that have become increasingly associated with the modern Spanish style.

Fermin will attract particular attention in midfield. In a short period, he has developed from a promising talent into an important player for both his club and country. His movement between the lines, work without the ball and ability to shoot from distance give Spain an additional attacking threat.

Zubimendi is expected to provide balance in the centre of the pitch, while Fabian offers experience and composure as Spain look to control the tempo.

The forward line of Ferran Torres, Baena and Yeremy represents a quick and mobile group capable of pressing the Czech defence from the opening minute. Spain are expected to rely on possession, counter-pressing and swift attacks down the flanks to break through a Czechia side known for its organisation and resilience.

The match is an important test in the Nations League, going beyond a routine group-stage fixture. Czechia are difficult to defeat, backed by passionate supporters and a strong competitive spirit. Spain, however, enter with the confidence of champions and a group of players eager to create their own history.

For De la Fuente, this line-up could mark the beginning of a new phase: one shaped less by the past and more by the future.