A guide to Spain at the U-19 European Championships

Published on July 19, 2011 by David Cartlidge · 1 Comment

When Spain won the European U-21 Championships last month, there was a feeling the baton was being passed from the likes of Xavi and Carles Puyol to the younger stars such as Alvaro Domínguez and Thiago Alcántara. Now, despite the dust still settling on that fine performance, it’s the turn of the U-19’s to start their race.

The squad, predominantly made up of players from the 93’ generation, travel to Romania in what will be the next level of development in their potentially hugely promising careers. As well as the competition in the Eastern European country, they are hampered by the tournament overlapping with Spain U-20’s World Cup campaign in Colombia. Key figures from the U-19 qualifying in Jordi Amat, Marc Muniesa and the hugely impressive midfield trio of Koke, Sergi Roberto and Isco are all missing as they will feature in Colombia.

That isn’t to say the U-19’s are left with a weak squad, and among them are some regulars at this level but also promising new talents stepping up to this grade. Here is a look at the key members of the squad.

Daniel Carvajal: Influential for Real Madrid Castilla in a fantastic season which didn’t go unnoticed by senior staff. Strong in the tackle and adept in his position defensively, but also raids forward well from full back. Can also feature at centre-back, where the positioning traits have been useful.

Jon Aurtenetxe: Everything was going so brilliantly for the young Basque, as he made the Athletic Bilbao left back slot his own. Strong, quick, technically gifted for a defender and most of all plays with plenty of heart – all ruined by a terrible shoulder injury which kept him out for the season. Recuperation has gone well, now he wants to remind people just how good he is.

Pablo Sarabia: Just earned a move to Getafe which could be the making of him. After starting out as a traditional tricky winger he’s gradually developed into a playmaker of sorts over the least year, combining the skill, intelligence and off the ball movement. His presence in Romania is significant to how far Spain could go. Think Juan Mata more than Jesus Navas in terms of style.

Gerard Deulofeu: The baby of the group, and the only one representing from 1994. Enormous display at the U-17’s and many inside not only Barcelona but Spain too, say he might be the biggest prospect the country have. Wonderful body movement, searing pace and an eye for goal – Guardiola had him travel with the Barcelona squad to Real Sociedad last season, and it was with great foresight.

Juanmi: The youngest player in Primer Division history was devastating in U-19 qualifying, and Málaga recognised his talents with a solid new contract. A dynamic force between the lines of attack and midfield that has an admirable work rate to go with technique and versatility.

Full squad details, dates and times etc are here.

Potential line-up: