MADRID, June 4 (Xinhua) -- Spain will face France in the UEFA Nations League semifinal on Thursday night, with all eyes on Betis midfielder Isco.
Isco rejoined Luis de la Fuente's squad last week after a standout season with his club, scoring nine goals and providing eight assists in 22 La Liga appearances. His form earned him a national team recall four years after missing out on the 2021 European Championship.
While the 33-year-old appears to be back in favor, De la Fuente faces a selection challenge in fitting him into a crowded lineup.
Lamine Yamal is almost certain to start, with Alvaro Morata likely to lead the attack and Dani Olmo typically occupying the deep-lying role that suits Isco.
Nico Williams could be at risk after finishing the season with a pelvic issue that kept him out of five of the final six matches, although De la Fuente still included him in the squad.
Villarreal's Alex Baena is another strong option on the left, having played a key role in his club's qualification for next season's Champions League.
In defense, Unai Simon continues in goal after an excellent final stretch of the season, fully recovered from wrist surgery. Young talents Pau Cubarsi and new Real Madrid signing Dean Huijsen are available in the backline. Robin Le Normand remains in the squad, while Dani Vivian has arguably been La Liga's top central defender this season.
Marc Cucurella is expected to start at left-back, with Europa League winner Pedro Porro on the right.
Pedri should be the first name on the team sheet after an outstanding season. Options to partner him in midfield include Fabian Ruiz, who helped Paris Saint-Germain win its first Champions League title, Martin Zubimendi, who is reportedly close to joining Arsenal from Real Sociedad, as well as Gavi and Mikel Merino, who offers scoring threats from deep.
De la Fuente may have an abundance of options, but fans will be eager to see Isco back on the pitch. ■
