🇪🇸 WWC Preview: Can Spain overcome controversy and feuds? | OneFootball

As off-field issues between players and the federation/manager Jorge Vilda take centre stage, will Spain truly be a united side at the Women’s World Cup? The ‘Golden Generation’ has a chance to win their first title.

See all of our Women’s World Cup preview content right here.

The Nuts and Bolts 🛠

Group C

On paper, Spain should probably be considered favourites in a group featuring Japan, Costa Rica and Zambia. However, as 2011 winners and 2015 finalists, Japan may look to capitalise on their internal issues to take control and pip them to top spot.

Women’s World Cup pedigree

This is the third time La Roja will feature on the big stage with their best chance to make waves as they boast a ‘Golden Era’ of stars. Spain have just one win from their seven World Cup matches, falling at the group stage in 2015 and Round of 16 in 2019.

Can you tell me a bit about the manager?

Jorge Vilda helped La Roja reach the knockout rounds for the first time four years ago, and Spain have steadily climbed to their highest-ever ranking under his guidance since 2015 (sixth).

However, 15 players — including Aitana Bonmatí, Mariona Caldentey and Ona Battle — initially resigned from international duty, citing Vilda created a toxic culture in the camp only to see just those three players recalled. Some, including star defender Mapi León, have stayed away for the tournament.

The Ones to Watch 💥

Key Player: Aitana Bonmatí (Barcelona)

We’re sure you expected two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas to be here. But with the star only just recovering from an ACL injury it’s not clear if she’ll be at the top of her game and Aitana Bonmatí becomes the one to watch after running rampant in 2022/23.

The Barcelona midfielder could be the next in line for individual awards depending on how things go this summer, having won the league (nine goals and 10 assists) and Women’s Champions League (five goals and eight assists) last season.

Young Player: Salma Paralluelo (Barcelona)

At only 19, the winger earns consistent game time at one of club football’s most successful teams and provided 12 goals and five assists in Liga F and Women’s Champions League in 2022/23.

After missing out on the Euro 2022 squad, this is the time to break through for the national team, and she has the ability to do so.

Interestingly, she was a dual-athlete until last year, when she decided to pursue football and step aside from competitive athletics.

Surprise Package: One Batlle (Barcelona)

Barcelona have a plethora of representation in this squad, as does Real Madrid, but turn your attention to a defender who has been playing in England.

The attack-minded full-back provided nine WSL assists as Manchester United pushed Chelsea to the brink in the title race. She has joined Barcelona now and should not go under the radar despite her position.

The Talking Point 🗞

All eyes are on the relationships within this squad and whether or not they will boil over. Vilda said the conflict is “practically resolved” when he announced the squad, but big names still opted out.

Spain will be without key Barcelona trio Patri Guijarro (who scored two goals in UWCL final comeback), defender Mapi León and starting goalkeeper Sandra Paños.

The returns of Bonmatí, Batlle and Caldentey is huge as they are some of the squad’s biggest stars, but how much tension remains in the squad?

The Likely XI 🔎

(4-3-3): Misa; Carmona; Ivana Andrés, Paredes, Batlle; Bonmatí, Oroz, Putellas; Paralluelo, Hermoso, Caldentey.

The Prediction 🔮

Between Vilda’s comments and reports claiming Putellas and Paredes were negotiating conversations and potential returns, Spain might be able to put aside the off-pitch issues. And given the talent at their disposal, a run to the semi-finals could be likely if they do just that.

See all of our Women’s World Cup preview content right here.