Spain will take on reigning World Champions Germany on Friday night in one of the most exciting international friendlies coming our way this week.
Julen Lopetegui’s squad will face off against Joachim Low’s troops in Germany this week, before taking on Argentina at home the next week. And with only a handful of fixtures left before La Roja take off for the summer’s World Cup in Russia, the manager will be keen on assessing his available options in the squad and giving the members a chance to seal a permanent spot in the roster.
The biggest news when the squad for the two friendlies was announced was that Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata had been dropped owing to his recent run of poor form at club level. Fellow Chelsea teammates Cesc Fabregas and Pedro also failed to make the cut while Marcos Alonso was handed his first senior call-up. Former Chelsea striker Diego Costa returned to the fold but Sergio Busquets misses out due to injury.
Here’s how we expect Spain to set out against Die Mannschaft this Friday night.
One of the best in the world, if not the best, David De Gea is the obvious choice between the sticks for Spain.
The 22-year-old right-back has been earning rave reviews for his performances for Real Madrid and was handed his debut for Spain by Lopetegui last October. Should make his 3rd international appearance.
The Barcelona man is enjoying a fine campaign for his club and his experience and know-how will be key for this relatively young Spain side to succeed.
Unlike Pique, captain Sergio Ramos has been struggling for Real Madrid this term but the amount of experience behind him and his successful partnership with the Barcelona man at this level should see him start again.
The Barcelona full-back is back to his best after a below-par campaign last time around and should start ahead of Marcos Alonso against Germany.
In the middle of the park, it should be Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara who could go up against a number of his club teammates on Friday.
With Sergio Busquets absent, Lopetegui has drafted in Villarreal’s 21-year old defensive midfielder Rodri into the squad and he could be set to make his international debut against the mighty Germans.
The third midfield slot is likely to be taken up by Atletico Madrid mainstay Koke, ahead of his teammate Saul Niguez and Manchester City’s David Silva.
The Real Madrid man has been in good form in recent weeks and should be given the nod on the right flank based on his displays for the Galacticos of late.
After a six-month hiatus, Diego Costa returned to action in January for Atletico Madrid and has been in solid form ever since, having scored 6 and assisted 4 in 14 games. The manager will be keen on welcoming him back into the international fold.
On the left-hand side of the attacking trident should be another Real Madrid player, Marco Asensio. The 22-year old has been used regularly by Lopetegui and that is unlikely to change on Friday night.
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