ENRIQUE EYES ON SPANISH HIGHS..
LUIS ENRIQUE insists it will be evolution rather than revolution during his Spain reign.
Enrique has been tasked with reviving Spanish football following their latest major tournament disaster.
The comeback trail kicks off with Saturday’s UEFA Nations League clash against England at Wembley.
Spain, among the pre-tournament favourites, were dumped out of the World Cup by hosts Russia at the first knockout stage.
And their humiliating exit on penalties ended a turbulent period for the 2010 World Cup winners.
Their build-up in the summer was overshadowed by the sacking of manager Julen Lopetegui two days before their opening match, the thrilling 3-3 draw with Portugal. It emerged he had negotiated a deal to take over as Real Madrid boss behind the back of the Spanish Football Federation.
Lopetegui was replaced by Fernando Hierro but Spain’s subsequent flop followed their last-16 defeat at Euro 2016 and embarrassing group stage exit from the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
The last three tournaments are a far cry from the days when Spain were the dominant force in Europe, not to mention the world.
The tiki-taka masters won back-to-back European Championships in 2008 and 2012, either side of the 2010 World Cup during an incredible golden period.
Boss Enrique said: “The style will stay the same in terms of possession of the ball and having control of the game. There are just a few nuances. But we do not have to compare ourselves with what has gone before.
“We are not inferior to any team, but we have to improve things and evolve.
“I am not against any tactical system but my idea is to start with a 4-3-3.
“I have the players for a very balanced team, with an average age of 26 – although age is not decisive. I like my selection.”
Enrique axed seven members of Spain’s World Cup squad, though later recalled striker Iago Aspas to replace Diego Costa – and included 11 new faces in his first 24-man party.
Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga believes Spain’s players have to put the past behind them.
He said: “Those of us who come here do it very happily and with the maximum desire so that the beneficiary is the national team.”