This was Germany and the defence of the world champions, whom Spain could face again in the semi-finals at the World Cup, where Iniesta’s craft, eye and experience could prove similarly precious. “I don’t want to be around just because of who I was,” Iniesta told Spanish radio station Cadena SER on Thursday. International Friendly - Germany vs Spain - ESPRIT arena, Dusseldorf, Germany. In his absence, it was a brave call from Lopetegui to place Thiago Alcantara alongside Koke and Iniesta in an expansive midfield three. It is the central striking position, left vacant by Fernando Torres and David Villa 10 years ago, where Spain remain without a stand-out first-choice.

Source: New Strait Times March 24, 2018 13:41 UTC