Mikel Oyarzabal: Spain's new No 9?

Since scoring the winner for Spain in the Euro 2024 final against England last summer, Mikel Oyarzabal has established himself as the first-choice striker for the Spanish national team. The Real Sociedad captain opened the scoring at the Vasil Levski National Stadium in Sofia against Bulgaria, solidifying his place ahead of Álvaro Morata, Ferran Torres, and Samu Omorodion Aghehowa.

De la Fuente’s Trusted Leader

Head coach Luis de la Fuente has long considered Oyarzabal one of his untouchables, recalling their history together with Spain’s U-21s and at the Tokyo Olympics. The coach views him as a cornerstone of his system, and Oyarzabal has consistently delivered whenever called upon.

Hero of the Euro 2024 Triumph

Oyarzabal’s defining moment came in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin, when his extra-time goal from a Marc Cucurella assist secured Spain’s fourth European Championship. Though often deployed on the right wing, he has increasingly proven his worth as the team’s central striker.

A Consistent Performer in Big Matches

Over Spain’s last four competitive matches, Oyarzabal has started as the central striker, beginning with the Nations League quarterfinals against the Netherlands in Mestalla. He maintained the role in the semifinal versus France and the final against Portugal, scoring four goals in four games, with only the French defense managing to keep him out.

Reflecting after the victory in Sofia, Oyarzabal recalled his adaptability:
"Since I was little, I had to play as a striker. I’ve always tried to be available for whatever the coach asks of me. If I play from the start, from the bench, or don’t play at all, my goal is always to help the team," said the Basque forward, showing the same humility that has defined his career.

A Proven Striker Since Youth Levels

De la Fuente’s faith in Oyarzabal stretches back years. He was a key striker during Spain’s run to the 2019 U-21 European Championship title, scoring two goals and providing an assist. At the Tokyo Olympics, he played six of Spain’s seven matches as the central striker. That trust has now carried over to the senior team—where Oyarzabal continues to justify his coach’s belief as Spain’s new number 9.