The Spain national football team prepares to host Croatia at the Estadio Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán in Seville this Tuesday at 20:45 for their second UEFA Nations League fixture of the international window. Head coach Luis de la Fuente is planning personnel changes following a 3–2 away victory over England at Wembley Stadium.
That opening win in London extended Spain’s unbeaten run to 39 matches, collecting their first three points in the new Nations League group stage alongside group rivals the Czech Republic and Croatia. Having secured their second World Cup star in the United States this past summer, La Roja returns to home soil for the first time since their global triumph, giving supporters a chance to see the world champions in person.
Expected Tactical Changes and Lineup Adjustments
De la Fuente intends to preserve seven players from the starting side that overcame England, maintaining tactical continuity while injecting fresh legs into the squad. In defense, Alejandro Grimaldo is projected to replace Marc Cucurella at left-back, granting the latter a rest after his shift at Wembley. Unai Simón retains his place in goal, supported by right-back Marc Pubill and a central defensive pairing of Pau Cubarsí and Aymeric Laporte.
Midfield anchors will see the anticipated introduction of Pedri, who started on the bench against London. Pedri is expected to slot alongside Rodri and Fabián to re-establish a possession-dominant setup. While Rodri screens the backline, Pedri and Fabián are tasked with operating between the lines to break down Croatia’s defensive block.
Offensive Rotations in Seville
Further forward, Luis de la Fuente plans alterations in the attacking third. Mikel Oyarzabal is slated to lead the attack in place of Ferran Torres, offering greater mobility and link-up play. On the flanks, Álex Baena is positioned to replace Nico Williams, operating alongside Lamine Yamal, who remains a fixture in the starting XI.
Mikel Merino is also pushing for minutes as part of the wider squad rotation. Meanwhile, Le Normand, Yeremi, and Roberto Fernández have been omitted from the matchday squad and will watch from the stands in Seville.
Upcoming Fixture Schedule
Following Tuesday evening’s clash in Andalusia, the Spanish squad faces a schedule before domestic league action resumes in October. La Roja will travel to face the Czech Republic on Saturday, October 3, before concluding this international window with a return fixture against Croatia on Tuesday, October 6.
