Álex Baena and Atlético in sight: 2-3 starters for Spain vs Croatia

Atlético keeps a close watch on the national team match: Spain vs Croatia, for Nations League Group A1 leadership, is set for Tuesday, September 29 at 20:45 at the Sánchez Pizjuán. In the best scenario, the starting XI could include Álex Baena and even “two, and in the best case three” Atlético players from kickoff.

Luis de la Fuente is expected to rotate to freshen up frequent starters. Mundo Deportivo points to doubts over whether Ferran Torres keeps his spot as a forward or whether Mikel Oyarzabal returns—after scoring the decisive goal against England. The same uncertainty surrounds Nico Williams and Álex Baena.

There’s also room for changes on the back line. With Robin Le Normand having joined after Eric García’s knee-related absence, Pedri González, Mikel Merino and Alejandro Grimaldo are listed among those who could start to manage accumulated minutes. Marc Pubill is tipped for right-back, while Grimaldo has strong chances on the left. Captain Luka Modrić (41) is back in a Spanish stadium.