Munir El Haddadi Will Lead Spain In Euro 2016 Qualifying

Just yesterday the world was able to witness Spain play once again on the world stage. It was an integral friendly in the sense that coach Vincente Del Bosque had a presentation of not only a new looking squad, but perhaps a stronger performance. Unfortunately for La Roja fans, Spain’s World Cup problems still exist, luckily just not as acute. Brazilian-born striker Diego Costa was the front man for the Spanish, but was later reported to be out of their upcoming Euro 2016 qualifier with a hamstring injury. This means bad news for club Chelsea, but not so much for Espana as they still look to be struggling to integrate him accordingly.

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In comes potential for the Spanish as Barcelona youngster Munir El Haddadi, who recently had his senior team debut against Elche a few weeks ago gets called up. Munir is eligible to play for Morocco but said he would “relish the chance to represent Spain at Euro 2016 in two years’ time” via goal.com. The Barcelona B forward  scored during his debut an impressive goal alongside his senior teammate and great Lionel Messi. Munir has definitely turned heads on Barcelona B scoring some fabulous goals for the team which has allowed him to make the promotion up to the senior team.

He recalls getting the phone call of a lifetime to reporters, via goal.com. 

"“When they told me, my mouth fell open. It’s a dream to play for the Spain team and I’m very happy. I’ve realized a dream. It’s a moment I want to enjoy, an opportunity to take, and to give my best.”"

Jun 8, 2013; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; /Spain forward Fernando Torres (9) goes for the deflection by Haiti goalkeeper Iker Casillas during the first half of a friendly at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

The decision to make Munir a replacement for Costa is a rational one on Del Bosque’s half. Although all qualifying matches are important, this will allow him to audition the young talent that he doesn’t get to see enough of in league games. It will offer the pressures of wearing a country’s crest, but also the pressures of an international manager. What can be harmful in this decision is the mental beating it can add to players such as Fernando Torres who, more than anyone need is in dire need of a confidence boost. Or Alvaro Negredo whose presence for Espana has been short and unfulfilled.

Otherwise, Munir didn’t seem daunted enough to play poorly in his senior debut. Thus the Spanish could hopefully be pleased to see a new blessing coming their way.