World Cup 2018: 4 things Spain must do to recover following their exit

#1 Build the team around Isco: More ‘Direct’ Players

Isco

So far, the evidence is that Spain’s new generation does not hold a candle to the likes of Pique, Ramos, Iniesta, Silva and Busquets. However, they do have the type of attacking talent that can define successful international teams: Isco.

The Real Madrid attacking midfielder was clearly the best player for Spain in the World Cup as he was their primary creative outlet. This was evident against Russia when Isco made two key passes, an incredible nine dribbles, three accurate crosses and nine accurate long balls. Even then, one got the feeling Isco was not as his best.

Isco is still only 26 and will likely continue to improve- potentially becoming a contender for the Ballon d’Or in the post-Messi/Ronaldo age. That is why Spain need to build their team around the Real Madrid midfielder moving forward.

The amount of talent in the nation is such that they can afford to focus on such an identity. Isco is best suited in a role where he can thread through balls and make crosses for more direct players. That is why players like Silva are not suited next to Isco. Instead, Spain should start the likes of Marco Asensio, Lucas Vasquez, Saul and Rodrigo. After all, usual ‘tiki-taka’ failed miserably in Russia.