Joselu, Ayoze Perez, and Mikel Merino, former players of Newcastle United, are gearing up to make their debut for Spain’s national team in the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament. These three talented individuals, who once wore the Black & White stripes under the management of Rafa Benitez, are set to showcase their skills on the international stage as Spain takes on Croatia in their second match.
Rafa Benitez, reflecting on his time coaching these players at Newcastle United, expressed his satisfaction and pride in seeing them excel. He recalled a memorable match against Tottenham Hotspur that solidified his decision to stay at the club, eventually leading them back to the Premier League after facing relegation.
Joselu, known for his selfless team play and tactical discipline during his time at Newcastle, recently won the Champions League with Real Madrid. Despite not being a prolific goal scorer during his stint at Newcastle, he has proven his worth on the field with his contributions to the team.
Ayoze Perez, who joined the Spain squad at the age of 30, made a strong debut by scoring against Andorra. After a successful spell at Newcastle under Benitez’s guidance, Perez moved on to Leicester City before finding his way to Real Betis in La Liga.
Mikel Merino, a talented midfielder who showed promise during his time at Newcastle, has found his stride at Real Sociedad. He has become a key player for both his club and the Spanish national team, appearing in several games and showcasing his skills on the field.
Benitez believes that Spain, with a blend of experienced and young talent, has the potential to make a mark in the Euro 2024 tournament. While the expectations may not be sky-high, Benitez is confident that Spain has the players who can make a difference on the field.
As the tournament approaches, the spotlight will be on these former Newcastle players as they represent Spain on the international stage. Their experience, skill, and understanding of the game make them valuable assets to the team, capable of executing the game plan and exploiting the weaknesses of their opponents. Benitez’s pride in their achievements serves as a testament to the impact these players have had under his guidance and their continued success in their careers.