Spain came to Germany quietly, feeling unnoticed. They depart not only as European champions, but also with a promising new generation capable of dominating the world.
This tournament showcased the talents of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, two young players who became game-changers on the field. It was also the stage for Rodri, a potential Ballon d’Or winner in the making. However, above all, it belonged to a team that outshone everyone else.
Under Luis de la Fuente’s guidance, Spain defeated powerhouses like Germany, France, and England, solidifying their claim to the title without any room for complaints from their opponents.
Euro 2024 will be remembered by Spain fans as a triumph that exceeded expectations. This squad was expected to be good, but not this exceptional, especially at their young age. Winning all seven games, Rodri and Yamal were named the best player and best young player of the tournament.
The Athletic has delved into the behind-the-scenes story of Spain’s success, including:
- The leadership of Alvaro Morata
- The hidden talent De la Fuente unveiled
- The players’ adaptation to a new style of play
- The emergence of Yamal and Williams
Morata — a misunderstood yet brilliant captain
Alvaro Morata, despite not being a standout performer on the field, emerged as a key figure in the team as their captain and a beloved presence in the dressing room.
While facing external criticism, Morata’s teammates and coaching staff admire his leadership qualities and positive influence on the squad.
His off-field contributions, from organizing playlists to advocating for fair bonuses, showcased his dedication to the team’s success.
Despite facing challenges and external scrutiny, Morata’s impact on and off the field was instrumental in Spain’s triumph.
De la who?
Luis de la Fuente, relatively unknown at the club level, proved his worth at the international stage by guiding Spain to European glory in his first senior-level tournament.
His leadership and strategic approach, focusing on player roles and team cohesion, played a pivotal role in Spain’s success.
Players embraced the new era
Spain’s transition to a more versatile playing style, evident in their victory over Croatia, showcased De la Fuente’s vision and the players’ adaptability.
Players like Rodri played a crucial role in neutralizing opponents’ attacks and emphasizing teamwork and tactical awareness.
Yamal and Williams announce themselves to the world
Yamal and Williams, from their initial partnership in the qualifiers to their standout performances in the tournament, symbolized Spain’s new generation of talent and unity.
Their on-field chemistry and off-field camaraderie exemplified the team spirit driving Spain’s success at Euro 2024.
Turning issues into blessings
De la Fuente’s ability to adapt and find solutions to challenges, such as player injuries, highlighted his tactical acumen and the team’s resilience.
Players like Dani Olmo and Fabian Ruiz stepping up in critical moments underscored Spain’s depth and ability to overcome obstacles en route to victory.
Despite facing setbacks, Spain’s unexpected heroes and united team spirit propelled them to the pinnacle of European football.
(Top photos: Getty; Dan Mullan, Miguel Medina/AFP, Ina Fassbender/AFP; design: Dan Goldfarb)