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With disappointing results, poor performances, and his job under threat, Luis Aragones opted to change Spain’s playing style ahead of the 2008 European Championship. The Spanish manager put his faith in a group of technically gifted midfielders, and the plan worked, kickstarting an era of spectacular success for the national team.
Spain went on to win Euro 2008, beginning a run of three tournament triumphs that included the 2010 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2012. This article takes a look at some of the best midfielders from that glorious era and across the history of the Spanish national team.
Fabian Ruiz
Fabian Ruiz, the versatile midfielder who has represented Spain since 2019, was part of the squad that won the UEFA Nations League in 2023. He was also in the squads for Euro 2020 and Euro 2024, but missed out on the 2022 World Cup.
Jose Maria Bakero
Jose Maria Bakero, a talented attacking midfielder, helped Real Sociedad to two La Liga titles in the early 1980s and won four more at Barcelona, where he was also part of Johan Cruyff’s European Cup-winning side in 1992. He earned 30 caps for Spain between 1987 and 1994, scoring seven goals.
Pirri
Pirri, a central midfielder who later dropped back to play as a sweeper, won 10 La Liga titles, four Copas del Rey, and a European Cup in a long stint at Real Madrid between 1964 and 1980. He played 41 times for Spain and scored 16 goals.
The article also features midfielders such as Juan Señor, Juan Manuel Asensi, Thiago Alcantara, Javi Martinez, Gavi, Pedri, Victor Muñoz, Marcos Senna, Ruben Baraja, David Albelda, Joaquin, Isco, Juan Carlos Valeron, Gaizka Mendieta, Juan Mata, Julen Guerrero, Koke, Michel, Rodri, Santi Cazorla, Pep Guardiola, Luis Enrique, Luis Suarez, David Silva, Xabi Alonso, Cesc Fabregas, Sergio Busquets, Andres Iniesta, and Xavi.
These players have left an indelible mark on the history of Spanish football, contributing to the national team’s glorious era of success and influencing the way the game is played.
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