Xavi, Iniesta, Pique, Raul: Who is the greatest Spanish player ever?

For so long the nearly-men of international football, Spain enjoyed a golden generation of talent in the late 2000s, who helped La Roja claim three straight major international trophies.

Prior to their 1-0 victory over Germany in the final of Euro 2008, it had been 44 years since the country last claimed silverware. However, once the Spanish side had a taste for glory, they quickly followed it up with victories at both the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012.

It’s no surprise then to see FourFourTwo’s recent countdown of the 10 greatest players ever to represent Spain packed with players from the most successful period in their history.

So tough, in fact, was the competition for places that there is no room on the list for Fernando Torres – Spain’s goalscorer in the Euro 2008 final.

Let’s now take a look at the top 10 in full, which includes some of the finest technical players ever to grace a pitch.

10. Xabi Alonso

9. Gerard Pique

8. Carles Puyol

7. Raul

6. Sergio Busquets

5. Sergio Ramos

4. David Villa

3. Iker Casillas

2. Andres Iniesta

1. Xavi

Vicente del Bosque – who led Spain to both their 2010 World Cup and 2012 European Championship triumphs once described Xavi as being “more important than the coach” to the national side.

The midfielder was also tipped to “become the brain behind Barcelona for many years to come,” by his former boss Pep Guardiola.

Ironically, Pep was spot on, as Xavi is now in charge at the Camp Nou – where he works alongside a host of Spanish youngsters including Pedri, Gavi and Ansu Fati.

A major force in Spain’s glory years, Xavi deservedly tops the countdown and looks set to be a significant influence on the future of the national side.

Xavi eventually taking charge of La Roja probably shouldn’t be