June 4, 2025 — Spain are set to defend their UEFA Nations League crown this summer in Germany, as coach Luis de la Fuente eyes back-to-back titles with a resurgent La Roja. No team has ever won the competition twice, but Spain’s golden generation 2.0 is ready to change that history.
Building on 2023 Glory, Aiming for 2025 History
Spain’s 2023 Nations League triumph was an early sign of a comeback. It laid the foundation for their unforgettable Euro 2024 victory, which saw them beat powerhouses like Italy, Germany, France, and finally England. Now, the focus is on retaining their UEFA crown in 2025, a task coach De la Fuente calls “enormously important.”
“We want to be the first team to win the Nations League twice. It’s almost more difficult than a European Championship,” said De la Fuente.
Spain face a tough semi-final clash against France in Stuttgart, with either Germany or Portugal waiting in the final. But the confidence in the Spanish camp is sky-high after an unbeaten run of 23 competitive matches since their last defeat in March 2023 against Scotland.
Star-Studded Youth Meets Strategic Veteran Experience
The squad is anchored by dazzling young talents:
- Lamine Yamal (17) – Barcelona’s electric winger who starred at Euro 2024
- Nico Williams (22) – The Athletic Bilbao flier making waves on the left flank
- Pedri (22) – Spain’s midfield engine and playmaker-in-chief
- Samu Aghehowa (21) – Porto’s rising striker with the flair and power to lead the line
- Dean Huijsen – The new Real Madrid defensive recruit showing promise at the back
This vibrant new core is supported by experienced names, and in a welcome twist, Isco (33) has made a sensational return. The Real Betis midfielder had a brilliant club season and finally earned the national call-up he had long desired.
“He’s going to add a lot,” De la Fuente said. “If we had any doubts, he wouldn’t be here.”
Rodri Absent, But Midfield Still World-Class
Manchester City’s Rodri Hernandez remains sidelined due to injury, but Spain’s midfield depth continues to shine. Between Pedri, Isco, and others like Dani Olmo, De la Fuente has multiple systems at his disposal. His team can adapt and win in several ways — with or without a traditional striker.
Who Will Lead the Line for Spain?
Spain’s only notable weakness remains the absence of a world-class striker. But that hasn’t stopped their success. Options include:
- Samu Aghehowa – Young and explosive, possibly Spain’s next goal-scoring star
- Álvaro Morata – The experienced target man offering leadership and physicality
- Dani Olmo – Used effectively as a false nine
- Mikel Oyarzabal – The Euro 2024 final goal-scorer and a reliable finisher
“This is a team where everyone contributes,” said De la Fuente. “That’s what makes us strong.”
The Bigger Picture: 2026 World Cup Ambitions
With momentum building, Spain are quietly becoming favourites for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. De la Fuente’s men not only have technical brilliance, but tactical maturity, versatility, and now — winning experience.
They are no longer rebuilding. They are contenders. And if they can win the Nations League again, there will be no doubt: Spain are back among the elite of world football.
What’s Next?
- 📅 Spain vs France – Nations League Semi-Final
📍 Stuttgart, Germany | 🕒 Date: TBD - 🏆 Final vs Germany or Portugal – if they win
