England take on World Champions Spain in the opener of the Nations League, in a repeat of the 2024 European Championship final. Thomas Tuchel will be looking to use the Nations League as a beacon for tournament success and there is no bigger test than current World Cup holders Spain.
Five key players have withdrawn from Thomas Tuchel's England squad ahead of their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures. Declan Rice, Cole Palmer, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, and Tino Livramento all pulled out due to injury and load management concerns.
The Three Lions recorded their highest-ever World Cup finish since 1966 in the summer, but Tuchel drew heavy criticism for his tactical setup and squad selection throughout the tournament. Tuchel particularly drew criticism for the semi-final against Argentina, especially with the game management aspect, which cost England a chance in the final. Declan Rice's absence will surely be felt in midfield, as will Kobbie Mainoo's, so James Garner is expected to start next to big summer signing Elliott Anderson from Manchester City. The defeat against Argentina was England's only blemish in the summer tournament, but as mentioned, performances were not great.
England's recent record at Wembley has been relatively inconsistent with two wins from their last four matches, with the Three Lions suffering a defeat to Japan.
As for Spain, La Roja have enjoyed two successful years in international football. First, they won the European Championship against England and, two years later, became world champions for a second time. Spain are on an excellent run of 18 games without a defeat, with their last defeat taking place against Portugal in the Nations League.
England are missing key players and have gone five matches without a clean sheet. Spain, on the other hand, appear to be at full strength, so will have just enough to overcome the Three Lions at Wembley.
England 1-2 Spain
