This team isn't based on sole international performance, but the best players from this nation in a balanced squad.
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STARTING XI
REMAINING SQUAD MEMBERS
3 best players not in the squad:
9 players in the squad were part of the iconic 2008-2012 team, with 5 starters. 3 players from the Euro 1964 winning team also make the squad - this was the only time they won one of the 2 major tournaments prior to the famous modern era. Paco Gento wasn't in this 64' team after a disagreement with the manager, but was recalled for the following tournament. He has won the joint most European Cups of any player in history, alongside Carvajal and Modric. Only Carvajal makes this squad from the Euro 2024 winning side, although other young players may make it here eventually. Spain have had many great goalkeepers, but the first two in the squad stood out, while Iribar makes it as the third goalkeeper ahead of Luis Arconada and Andoni Zubizarreta. Quincoces narrowly made in ahead of Gerard Pique. The right back spot was slightly weaker than other top nations, but Carvajal was still one of the best in the world for a period of time. Ramos is capable as his back-up if needed. Xavi and Suarez were definite starters in the midfield 3, but deciding between Busquets and Pirri to start as a holding midfielder was difficult. I couldn't seperate them as players, and have changed my mind on them multiple times. Ultimately I chose Busquets because he is probably more natural in this role than Pirri. So Pirri is on the bench as midfield cover alongside Alonso. Iniesta played on the right during the 2010 World Cup and was outstanding, and playing him there also allowed me to start Gento on the opposite flank. Amancio and Silva can act as cover for the wide players, while Butragueno, Villa and Zarra are options upfront. Due to Raul's capability to play in Suarez's role, there was no overload of strikers in the squad. Players By Decade: 2010's (8), 2000's (4), 1960's (4), 1980s (3), 1990's (1), 1950's (1), 1940s (1), 1930's (1) |
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Spanish Positional Ranking (World Class Players - 49)
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Top 20 Spanish Players of All-Time
(& their all-time positional rank)
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