England return to action for the first time since heartbreak in the World Cup semi-finals and their subsequent victory in the third-place play-off, as they face Spain in the opening fixture of this season’s Nations League.
Thomas Tuchel’s men have been given a tough task in their Nations League A3 group opener, against the world and European champions, with this the two sides’ first meeting since the Euro 2024 final - another crushing loss for the Three Lions.
Luis de la Fuente has signed a contract to extend his spell as Spain head coach until at least 2032, while Tuchel remains at the helm of England despite an inquest into their World Cup disappointment, and all eyes will be on his side as they look to bounce back.
The Wembley clash will also see two of the contenders for this year’s Ballon d’Or go head-to-head, as England captain Harry Kane goes up against Spain’s star forward Lamine Yamal. Kane scored an incredible 73 goals for club and country last season.
The top two sides in the group will progress to the Nations League quarter-finals, with matches against Croatia and Czech Republic also scheduled for this international break. Here’s everything you need to know.
When is England v Spain?
England face Spain at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 26 September, with kick-off at 7.45pm BST.
How can I watch it?
Viewers in the UK can watch the match on ITV1 and streaming service ITVX.
Team news
Thomas Tuchel has seen a raft of withdrawals from his squad, with Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, Tino Livramento, Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo all pulling out injured, while the likes of Reece James and John Stones were unavailable for selection anyway due to injury. Morgan Gibbs-White and James Garner have been called up as replacements.
Spain are missing Pedro Porro and Joan Garcia, while Marcos Llorente has retired from the international game.
Predicted line-ups
England XI: Pickford; Quansah, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Scott; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane
Spain XI: Simon; E Garcia, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, N Williams; Oyarzabal
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