England v Spain: Preview, expected line-ups, stats and where to watch

England host world champions Spain at Wembley Stadium on Saturday evening in their opening fixture of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League campaign. The match marks England's first appearance since finishing third at the 2026 World Cup, while Luis de la Fuente's Spain arrive as both European and world champions. Historically, England hold the advantage with 14 wins in 28 meetings, though Spain won the Euro 2024 final 2-1.

England manager Thomas Tuchel faces notable squad absences, with Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, and Tino Livramento all sidelined through injury. Morgan Gibbs-White and James Garner have joined the squad as replacements. Spain will be without injured duo Joan Garcia and Pedro Porro, while Marcos Llorente has retired from international duty, and uncapped players Ivan Fresneda and Roberto Fernandez have received call-ups.