Spain return to the Sánchez Pizjuán for a demanding Nations League meeting with Croatia, with Luis de la Fuente ready to rotate heavily after the 3-2 win at Wembley. The priority is freshness across a packed calendar, and the planned changes are expected to reach every area of the side.
Key takeaways
- Unai Simón is set to make his 68th appearance for Spain.
- Pedri is expected to return to the starting XI.
- Martín Zubimendi could start after limited minutes at Arsenal.
- Alejandro Grimaldo is expected to be selected ahead of Marc Cucurella.
- Spain’s forward line is also likely to look significantly different.
Fresh legs for Croatia test
De la Fuente had already indicated that his squad would be rotated for the second match of the international window. Spain’s victory in England came at a price in physical terms, and the coach’s response is expected to be a reshaped team rather than minor adjustments.
Simón will remain in goal despite conceding twice at Wembley. The Athletic Club goalkeeper nevertheless helped Spain secure an important 3-2 result in one of the side’s most challenging recent fixtures, and he is due to start again in Seville.
In defence, Grimaldo is expected to take the left-back place ahead of Cucurella. The Atlético defender did not feature at Wembley and is in line to come into a side being refreshed for Croatia’s visit.
Zubimendi and Pedri set to reshape midfield
The clearest alteration is expected in midfield, where Zubimendi could be handed an opportunity alongside Pedri. The Arsenal player has found starts difficult to come by at club level, recording only 197 minutes so far this season and making just one start, in the Carabao Cup.
Spain could therefore offer Zubimendi the platform he has lacked in London, while Pedri’s return would add a different rhythm to the centre of the pitch. The expected overhaul extends further forward, where De la Fuente is preparing substantial attacking changes for a match that will test the depth of his European champions.
