Spain
Tactics
Much as Luis Aragones has insisted on the need “to compete”, he knows that it is technical quality that makes la seleccion stand out. Indeed, the coach claims that when it comes to the passing game, Spain are the most talented side in Europe, and he has sought to build a quick, incisive side faithful to those characteristics.
Aragones goes 4-3-3
Aragones has also been keen to find a formation in which there is a place for Xavi, Iniesta and Fabregas. That has led him to adopt a 4-3-3 formation in which a deep-lying midfielder, either Senna or Xabi Alonso, protects Xavi and Fabregas/Iniesta. The player who does not accompany Xavi then plays in a more advanced role as a “false winger” on the right. Silva (or Villa) plays on the left of the front three, with Fernando Torres as the central striker.
Full-backs forward
Iniesta, Fabregas, Silva and Villa are not natural wingers, so the width is provided by full-backs Sergio Ramos and Capdevila, who are encouraged to push forward. It is the perfect role for the athletic Ramos. Aragones has the option, with Riera, Silva and Joaquin, of playing two up front and two out wide.
The weakest link is central defence – Puyol’s positioning can be questionable, Pablo has had a terrible season, Marchena is rudimentary and Albiol does not yet appear to have the trust of Aragones, hence the importance of Senna or Xabi Alonso in a role the coach had toyed with not using at all.
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