Five Spanish starlets who can become the next big names
Published:
Matt Haynes | November 14, 2015
Spain, who are 11/2 to win Euro 2016 would have been short favourites for the previous edition of the tournament. Having waned at the World Cup, suffering a shock exit at the group stage, though, remarkably are still chasing a record third consecutive Euro triumph.
Currently in a period of transition, La Roja have a number of other stars who will hang up their boots during the next couple of years. As a result, we suggest five players who can make the step up and pick up the mantle of responsibility.
Sergi Roberto
Being eased into the first team at Barcelona, the 22-year-old has been tipped to step into the shoes of Xavi Hernandez and have the same impact. A fine distributor of the ball, he can bring back the metronomic presence to the Spain national team and be a mainstay for years to come.
Marc Bartra
Another who hails from Barcelona’s famous La Masia youth academy, Bartra has bundles of potential and is one of a crop of young Spanish centre backs with talent. Established in the Barca first team, he has struck up a great on-field relationship with Gerard Pique and will have high hopes of cementing his international future.
Saul Niguez
A prodigious talent, the 19-year-old Atletico Madrid midfielder has drawn comparisons to Sergio Busquets and certainly seems to have similar traits. He also operates in a similar position and is being groomed to play a major role both domestically and internationally in the future.
Munir El Haddadi
Another who has come through La Masia. He can operate anywhere in a three-pronged attack, though has, understandably found chances at Barca limited due to a certain trio that is Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez. Whether he decides to move clubs for the sake of his international prospects remains to be seen, though he has the talent to excel.
Paco Alcacer
Valencia’s striker is tipped to become one of the best strikers in Europe and with five goals in 10 La Liga appearances already this season, he is starting to attract interest from major European clubs. Watch this space.
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