Centre back Aymeric Laporte will make his highly anticipated debut for Spain at Euro 2024 as they take on defending champions Italy in a crucial Group B game. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has made only one change to his starting team, keeping faith in left back Marc Cucurella while midfielder Rodri and captain Alvaro Morata start despite minor injuries. The winners of this game will secure their spot in the round of 16 as the top team in Group B, leaving Croatia and Albania to fight for the second spot.
Aymeric Laporte to Make Spain Debut in Euro 2024 Clash with Italy
Spanish national team manager Luis de la Fuente has announced that Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte will make his highly anticipated debut for La Roja at Euro 2024. Laporte, who has represented France at youth level, recently received Spanish citizenship and was called up to the squad for the tournament.
Spain will face defending champions Italy in a crucial Group B clash on June 14th, and Laporte is expected to start alongside Sergio Ramos at center back. The match will be a major test for the Spanish side, who are looking to reclaim the European Championship title they last won in 2012.
In addition to Laporte's debut, there was one other change to Spain's starting lineup from their previous match. Left back Marc Cucurella has retained his place in the team, while midfielder Rodri and captain Alvaro Morata will start despite carrying minor injuries.
The winner of the Spain-Italy match will secure a spot in the round of 16 as the top team in Group B. Croatia and Albania will face off in the other match in the group, with the second-placed team advancing to the knockout stage.
Background
Aymeric Laporte is a 28-year-old defender who was born in Agen, France. He began his career with Athletic Bilbao in Spain and later joined Manchester City in 2018. Laporte has made 18 appearances for the French national team but has never played in a major tournament.
Spain is a two-time European champion, having won the tournament in 2008 and 2012. La Roja have also won the FIFA World Cup once, in 2010.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why is Aymeric Laporte eligible to play for Spain?
Laporte received Spanish citizenship in May 2023 after living in the country for more than five years.
2. What is Spain's record against Italy in major tournaments?
Spain has a 4-2 record against Italy in major tournaments, including two wins in the European Championship and one in the World Cup.
3. Who is the captain of the Spain national team?
Alvaro Morata is the captain of the Spain national team.
4. When was the last time Spain won the European Championship?
Spain last won the European Championship in 2012, when they defeated Italy 4-0 in the final.
5. Who are Spain's main rivals in Group B?
Italy is Spain's main rival in Group B, but Croatia and Albania will also be looking to challenge for a place in the knockout stage.
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