Zubimendi Set to Step Up for Injured Rodri, Says Spain Coach

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expressed confidence on Friday that midfielder Martin Zubimendi is ready to step into the role of holding midfielder, following Rodri Hernandez's season-ending knee injury. The Manchester City player, a key figure for Spain during their successful Euro 2024 campaign, suffered the injury in September and is expected to miss the rest of the season.

Rodri's importance was clear during Euro 2024, particularly in the final where Spain secured a 2-1 victory over England. However, Zubimendi, a 25-year-old midfielder from Real Sociedad, made his own mark by replacing Rodri at half-time in that match and contributing to the team's success.

"Zubimendi has been playing (brilliant) games for a long time, if Rodri is the best player then Zubimendi is the second best in this position," De la Fuente said during a news conference. "He's got experience under his belt, he oozes security through every pore of his skin. Martin doesn't get nervous... he's a very mature player, so calm... Zubi is a sure bet, who never fails."

Spain, the Nations League champions, currently sit second in Group A4 and are preparing to face Denmark in Murcia on Saturday. They will then take on Serbia in Cordoba on Tuesday.

In addition to Rodri, Spain will also be without Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal, who is set to miss the season due to a knee injury, and winger Nico Williams, who is out with a minor knock. Despite these absences, De la Fuente remains confident in the team's depth.

"We're not going to cry, we're not going to make excuses about missing players," he said. "The ones who are here are very good too, also the best (players in the world) for me. Whoever is playing tomorrow in the place of Nico, or Rodri, or Dani, are absolutely great... they will give us more tactical richness."

De la Fuente emphasized that the team's strategy would not change due to the injuries. "We're not going to change anything in terms of our plan or our idea of football... the idea is very clear."

The coach acknowledged that injuries are an unfortunate aspect of football but noted that they can provide opportunities for other players to step up. "Nobody is irreplaceable... those who get the chance, albeit for unfortunate reasons, it's the time to take advantage of it," he concluded.