World Cup
Why Mikel Oyarzabal is Spain’s hidden weapon beyond Yamal’s flair
During Spain’s triumph at the 2024 European Championship, head coach Luis de la Fuente deployed all 23 outfield players across the seven matches.
Mikel Oyarzabal entered the Euro 2024 final against England in the 68th minute, replacing Alvaro Morata, and scored the decisive goal in the 86th minute of a 2-1 victory.
Although Oyarzabal featured in every Euro 2024 game, he started only the final group match versus Albania after Spain had already secured top spot.
Since that moment, he has continued to find the net for Spain, adding to his reputation despite being 29 and not widely praised alongside Kylian Mbappe or Harry Kane.
He enjoyed a strong La Liga season with Real Sociedad, while his international record shows involvement in 19 goals—13 goals and six assists—in his last 13 appearances, outpacing every European player except Norway’s Erling Haaland.
Haaland’s comparable tally stands at 22 direct contributions in 12 games, according to the input data.
Originally a winger, Oyarzabal has transitioned into a striker capable of making runs, dropping deeper, or widening the attack when opponents focus on Lamine Yamal.
Against Saudi Arabia, he recorded two goals and an assist in the first half, becoming only the second player since 1966 to be directly involved in three goals within the opening 25 minutes of a World Cup match.
His confidence from that display is reinforced by the fact that Ferran Torres, who replaced him later in the game, was less clinical.
Borja Iglesias, who plays for Celta Vigo, offers a contrasting target‑man profile and has yet to appear at this World Cup, though his qualities may be called upon depending on the opposition.
Between the posts, Unai Simon remains the first‑choice goalkeeper, with David Raya and Joan Garcia providing experienced alternatives.
Spain’s defence, anchored by centre‑back Aymeric Laporte and captain Rodri, has kept a clean sheet so far, reflecting the team’s compact and possession‑based approach.