Ahead of Spain's opening fixture of their World Cup defence against 2010 finalists the Netherlands, Sport360 analyses the five questions coach Vicente Del Bosque must be asking himself.
False nine or centre forward?
First choice striker
If Del Bosque does opt for a traditional target man, Diego Costa would almost certainly be his preferred choice to lead La Roja’s line. But the Atletico star has been troubled by a hamstring injury in recent weeks, and although has now apparently recovered Costa is severely lacking in match practise, potentially providing an opening for Fernando Torres to start.
Double pivot?
Throughout their last two tournament wins, a ‘double pivot’ defensive midfield pairing of Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso has been a constant feature for Spain. But with Alonso beyond his physical peak, Del Bosque experimented with a single holding player during the warm-up games, allowing him to field an additional attacking player to help unlock stubborn opposing defences. It would still be a surprise if he left out Alonso, though.
When and how to change?
Whichever playing system Del Bosque employs, he will certainly have a pre-defined plan to introduce changes as the game goes on. Perhaps more than any other manager, Del Bosque regards football as a 14-man game and will make full use of his substitutions. If Fabregas starts, expect the introduction of a genuine striker after an hour or so, when the opposition defence starts to tire.
Right-back
With Iker Casillas in goal, Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique an excellent central pairing and left-back Jordi Alba, Spain’s defence is largely very settled. But Del Bosque has left out veteran stalwart Alvaro Arbeloa and must now choose between the crafty ball skills and well-timed runs of Juanfran (above) or the more energetic and robust style of Cesar Azpilicueta (right), who excelled for Chelsea last season.
