Young side aim to climb out of post-World Cup abyss
Spain's soccer players practice during a training session at the Stade de France in Saint Denis, outside Paris
Paris: After their abject failure at the World Cup, Spain have a new look as they begin preparations for the defence of the European Championship with a friendly against France on Thursday. Just over two months on from their group-stage elimination as World Cup holders in Brazil, coach Vicente del Bosque takes a squad that is a mixture of familiar faces and potential stars of the future for the match at the Stade de France, the venue for the Euro 2016 final.
Xavi Hernandez and Xabi Alonso, veterans of the side that won Euro 2008, the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012, have retired from international football, following in the footsteps of David Villa.
Pepe Reina, Fernando Torres and Juan Mata were all omitted, while fitness problems of varying degrees have ruled out Gerard Pique, Andres Iniesta and Javi Martinez. Of the new faces, five are uncapped and four are aged 23 or under, including Valencia striker Paco Alcacer. Others have had to wait a little longer for their opportunity.
“It’s a team for now with a view to two years down the line,” explained del Bosque. “The squad that is a consequence of our bad performance, (but) the World Cup has not left any effects nor do we need to change our way of acting in the future.”
( Source : AFP )
Next Story
