Diego Llorente has been included in the Spain squad for the Euro’s this summer. The squad have had Covid related issues to contend with in the build up to their opening match, but as always they will be one of the front-runners.
Having won the competition in 2008 and 2012, Spain will be looking to regain their title and Llorente’s experience and impressive form at the heart of the defence will be key if they have a chance in doing so.
Like England, the Spaniards will play all three of their group matches on home turf, at Sevilla’s Estadio La Cartuja stadium.
Who is in charge of Spain?
Leading the Spanish pursuit of glory is the well known coach, Luis Enrique. The world-renowned manager spent his whole playing career in his home nation, beginning with Sporting Gijon before spending a number of years at Real Madrid and fierce rivals, Barcelona.
Prior to taking on his current role, Enrique had spells in charge of Roma, Celta and Barcelona. His first match in charge of Spain was a successful one against England at Wembley, a 2-1 victory for the visitors.
Who are Spain playing?
Group E is certainly a competitive one, but it will be a set of fixtures that the Spaniards would expect to win. All three games are on ‘home’ turf in Seville, with a supportive crowd behind them.
Monday 14th June, 2021 - Estadio La Cartuja, Seville
Spain vs Sweden - 20:00
Saturday 19th June, 2021 - Estadio La Cartuja, Seville
Spain vs Poland - 20:00
Wednesday 23rd June, 2021 - Estadio La Cartuja, Seville
Slovakia vs Spain - 17:00
How many times has Llorente played for Spain?
Diego was called up in 2016 and made his senior debut against Switzerland in a 3-1 victory. He has been a regular in squads since his first appearance and now has eight caps to his name.
Prior to gaining senior team recognition, Llorente earned six caps with the U20 side, with whom he first played for in 2013.
Last time out: Euro 2016
Having blown Europe away and won the previous two competitions, Spain were looking to cement their domination by winning a third straight title. They progressed through Group D in second place, behind Croatia - who they lost to in the final group match.
Finishing second set up a Round of 16 clash against Italy. The Spaniards were second best throughout and fell to a 2-0 defeat, ending any chance of a third title on the bounce.
Who else is in the squad?
Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao), David de Gea (Manchester United), Robert Sanchez (Brighton)
Jose Gaya (Valencia), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Pau Torres (Villarreal), Aymeric Laporte (Manchester City), Eric Garcia (Manchester City), Diego Llorente (Leeds), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea)
Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Rodri (Manchester City), Pedri (Barcelona), Thiago (Liverpool), Koke (Atletico Madrid), Fabian (Napoli), Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig), Pablo Sarabia (Paris Saint-Germain)
Gerard Moreno (Villarreal), Alvaro Morata (Atletico Madrid), Ferran Torres (Manchester City), Adama Traore (Wolves), Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad)
