Five key players in Spain’s quest for continued glory

By Michael Moschetto
Updated: 10 June, 2012

Gerard Pique and Sergio Ramos

Ok that makes it six players, but they play a integral part as a duo. It’s certainly self-evident that these guys are simply world-class defenders. Blessed with great athleticism and composure on the ball, they are quality anchors for any defense on this planet. With that being said, there is reason to believe that this partnership has the ability, although unlikely, to become unstable.

For one, each of these players have gone through an absolutely grueling domestic campaign; between the Copa del Rey, Champions League, and the 38-game season of La Liga, these guys have logged a plethora of minutes on the field. This physically-(and mentally)-taxing schedule inevitably causes a lack of form and fitness. Pique and Ramos must set aside any club differences and develop a chemistry if Spain are to successfully defend their European crown.

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