Spain’s national team enters Euro 2024 with a rare advantage: a full squad. Head coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed Tuesday that all 26 players called up for Germany are fit and ready for action, including late additions Víctor Muñoz, Lamine Yamal, and Nico Williams, who joined the group in the past 48 hours.

The revelation came as Spain prepared for their opening Group A match against Croatia, a fixture that carries significant weight after Spain’s 1-1 draw with host nation Germany in their warm-up encounter last week.

Why Spain’s Full Squad Availability Matters

Spain’s ability to field a complete squad is a strategic advantage in a tournament where injury concerns have plagued other nations. Unlike England, who have been forced to make late squad adjustments due to fitness issues, or France, who have had to manage key absences, Spain’s depth provides flexibility for de la Fuente to rotate tactically.

“We’re very happy with the situation,” de la Fuente told reporters. “All players are in great shape and ready to compete. This gives us options—we can manage minutes, rotate, and adapt to any situation.”

Spain’s last-minute additions—Muñoz (Atlético Madrid), Yamal (Barcelona), and Williams (Atlético Madrid)—bring youth and energy to a squad that already includes established stars like Rodri, Pedri, and Ferran Torres. The trio’s inclusion also addresses potential defensive vulnerabilities, with Muñoz providing defensive solidity and Williams offering width on the right.

Tactical Implications: How Spain Will Approach Their Euro 2024 Debut

With a full squad, de la Fuente can experiment with formations and lineups without injury concerns. His preferred 4-3-3 system remains likely, but the inclusion of Yamal and Williams—both capable of playing on either wing—opens up tactical possibilities.

Key considerations for the Croatia matchup:

• Youth injection: Yamal (20) and Williams (21) will provide a physical edge against Croatia’s more experienced defenders, while Muñoz (24) can bolster midfield depth.
• Defensive cover: Spain’s midfield trio of Rodri, Koke, and Gavi will be crucial in breaking down Croatia’s pressing, but Muñoz’s arrival adds a low-blocking option if needed.
• Set-piece threat: With Yamal and Williams now in camp, Spain’s attacking options from corners and free kicks have expanded significantly.

Croatia, managed by Zlatko Dalić, will look to exploit Spain’s potential lack of pace in midfield—a weakness de la Fuente may now address with Muñoz’s arrival. The Spaniards will need to control possession early to dictate the tempo.

Comparing Spain’s Squad Depth to Other Euro 2024 Teams

Spain’s full squad availability stands in stark contrast to several other Euro 2024 participants:

Spain’s ability to field a complete squad gives them a psychological edge, particularly against Croatia, who have had to manage injuries to players like Marcelo Brozović and Nikola Vlašić.

What to Watch in Spain’s Euro 2024 Opener

Spain’s debut against Croatia (June 15, 18:00 CET / 16:00 UTC at Allianz Arena) will be a test of their tactical flexibility and youth integration. Here’s what to focus on:

• Yamal’s impact: The Barcelona winger’s pace and dribbling could be decisive if Croatia struggles to mark him effectively.
• Midfield battle: Spain’s Gavi-Koke-Rodri trio will face Croatia’s Marcelo Brozović, Luka Modrić, and Ivan Perišić—can Spain control possession?
• Defensive organization:

  With Muñoz now available, de la Fuente may opt for a three-man midfield to shield the backline.

• Set-pieces: Spain’s attacking options from dead balls have doubled with Yamal and Williams in camp.