Best 15Spainof the 2010s

The metronome of Spain's 2010 world champions, combining historic passing, positional intelligence and control of possession.

Spain's defining player of the decade: scored the 2010 World Cup-winning goal, controlled major matches and remained central through 2018.

An elite defender, leader and set-piece threat who started throughout the 2010 triumph and appeared at all three World Cups of the decade.

Spain's tactically indispensable holding midfielder, starting the 2010 final and anchoring the national team at three consecutive World Cups.

Captain of the 2010 world champions, winner of the Golden Glove and producer of decisive saves in the knockout rounds and final.

Spain's leading scorer at the 2010 World Cup with five goals, including crucial strikes in the round of 16 and quarterfinal.

A world-class creator throughout the decade, selected for all three World Cups and influential in Spain's long era of possession football.

Ball-playing defensive pillar of the 2010 champions who started every match of the title run and represented Spain at three World Cups.

Defensive leader of the 2010 champions whose powerful header against Germany sent Spain into their first World Cup final.

A complete deep midfielder who supplied elite distribution, tactical discipline and defensive balance during the 2010 title campaign.

Elite playmaker and versatile midfielder who provided the assist for Iniesta's winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final.

Spain's outstanding attacking left-back of the post-2010 generation, offering exceptional speed, combinations and forward running.

A major forward in Spain's golden generation who contributed to the 2010 championship and remained a respected international threat.

One of the decade's leading right-backs at club level and Spain's first-choice option when fit during the 2018 World Cup cycle.

Dynamic, hard-working forward who entered Spain's starting lineup during the decisive stages of the victorious 2010 World Cup.