Will these Barcelona and Atlético stars be vital for Spain’s Euro 2016 hopes?

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Koke – Atletico Madrid

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At just 24 years of age, Koke is still in the infancy of what will undoubtedly become a great career. Whilst Andres Iniesta is undoubtedly the king of the Spanish midfield, it is worth remembering this statistic to put Koke’s quality into context. At the age of 32, Iniesta has given 90 assists in his career. Just 24, Koke has already given 64.

A twice defeated Champions League finalist and a La Liga winner, Koke has been linked with a move to Barcelona in the past, and would undoubtedly fit their system. A creative midfielder to the core, Koke may not be blessed with too much pace, but he certainly adds invention to the Spanish midfield, alongside some steel that is a trademark of any Diego Simeone squad.

One of the biggest problems for Spain has been; and will continue to be, replacing the great Xavi. Whilst Koke is a different kind of player, and has been vying for a starting place alongside the likes of Cesc Fabregas, this season has shown him to be the best candidate for the job as the third central midfielder, operating alongside Andres Iniesta and just in front of Sergio Busquets.

With movement in front of him, Koke knows exactly how to make goals, and with five strikes to his name this season, he is also capable of chipping in with a few himself. His creativity, energy and drive could be the difference should Spain’s hopes come down to a midfield battle.