Spain’s preparations for the final stages of the UEFA Nations League are well underway, with Luis de la Fuente aiming to guide his side past a formidable French team in the semi-finals.
The clash promises to be one of the most anticipated fixtures of the Nations League with France waiting on the other side of the bracket.
After months of injury setbacks, high-profile absences and emerging youth talents, Spain’s squad for the tournament’s final phase reflects a blend of experience and youthful exuberance.
This time around, La Roja have opted for balance, continuity and creativity in midfield – something that significantly benefits Barcelona ahead of a crucial summer of restructuring.
And it’s clear that Barca’s La Masia project is once again being trusted on the biggest stage.
Luis de la Fuente has named no fewer than six Barcelona players in his final squad to represent Spain in the closing stages of the Nations League.
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Pedri, Gavi, Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Pau Cubarsi and Fermin Lopez have all received the call, with their selection reinforcing the growing influence of Barcelona’s academy and first-team structure within the national setup.
Gavi’s return after a lengthy injury layoff is a major boost, while Yamal and Cubarsi continue to earn plaudits following breakout seasons at club level.
The inclusion of Fermin Lopez highlights just how far the midfielder has come in a short space of time, as he is now viewed as a legitimate international-calibre option.
Meanwhile, Dani Olmo’s selection adds attacking fluidity, while Pedri remains a staple in de la Fuente’s plans when fully fit.
However, not everyone has made the cut.
Alejandro Balde, Ferran Torres, Inigo Martinez and Eric Garcia were all left out – with Ferran recovering from recent appendicitis surgery.
The high Barcelona representation signals the club’s importance in Spain’s tactical blueprint moving forward, and will only increase the stock of players rumoured to be central to Barça’s long-term future.
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