World Cup 2026: Mikel Oyarzabal shows Spain are more than just Lamine Yamal – Cesar Azpilicueta

I have heard people say that Spain are missing a really elite number nine but with Oyarzabal, we have someone who we know can score the big goals, when it matters. We appreciate him, even if he is not seen as a superstar by others.

He used to play more on the wing but in the past couple of years he has transitioned more into a striker who can go in both directions, making runs past defenders or dropping deeper to link play.

Oyarzabal is also still able to go wide when needed, finding the spaces left when teams are attracted to Yamal, and his movement and intelligence makes him so effective. He is doing a great job.

After two goals and an assist in the first half against Saudi Arabia he will be full of confidence, and I like our other options up front too.

Ferran Torres was not as clinical when he came on for Oyarzabal in that game but I still feel he is in good form, while Borja Iglesias offers a different kind of striker profile.

Iglesias is someone people might know a little bit less, because he does not play in the Champions League with Celta Vigo, but if you’ve seen him you will understand why he is important for the squad.

He is someone who can be a bit more of a target-man, occupying the centre-backs. He has not been used yet at this World Cup but I am sure at some point there will be a game where Spain will need his qualities, depending on the opposition.

I know exactly what I am talking about because I had to mark him during my last match as a professional, less than a month ago in Vigo.