Defense:  The number 1 spot is occupied by the captain Andoni Zubizaretta. His first choice as backup is Santiago Cañizares, and third is José Molina. The ideal defensive line is: 2. Aguilera (Ferrer) , 3. Nadal, 4. Alkorta, 5. Sergi. In this case, Sergi is an important part of the attack, as he is fast and skillful in moving forward on the left flank. His replacement would be Aranzábal, another natural left back. Nadal and Alkorta are key in the central defense as stoppers. Hierro is also capable of playing in the central position, where he normally plays for Real Madrid. Abelardo is capable of playing as the right back or as a stopper in place of Alkorta or on the right for Aguilera or Ferrer. Ivan Campo serves as a substitute to the central defense but can play right back as well. Aguilera is a likely starter in place of  Ferrer, as he posses great speed up the right flank and had an outstanding performance in France.

Midfield: Position 6 was the position of Guardiola. Now in his absence, Albert Celades is likely to fill the spot. Amor is also capable of playing that position. It is the playmaker role that feeds to the attacking midfielders or the forwards. In position 7 Hierro normally plays for the nation team. It is the crucial pivot between defense and midfield, and Hierro’s solid play is an integral part of the formation. The main job is to recover the balls and prevent attacks, and also to fall back and cover for position 6.

Defense: same as formation 1. In this formation, the right wing and left wing defenders are more capable of attacking. Sergi possesses a good outside shot and Ferrer has a tendency to come far forward and make passes to the attackers. Sergi is the best and speediest attacking defender. Aguilera may be a likely starter in this position (2) for his great speed and attacking capabilities. The WC allowed him to take over for Ferrer.

Midfield: Position 6 would be occupied by either Amor or Celades. Celades is more of a playmaker and is more dangerous coming forward. Again Hierro is at the 7 spot to recover balls and seal the midfield. The 8 spot is natural for Luis Enrique, but Exteberia is capable of filling the spot, as is Amor. The left midfielder on the 9 spot would be either Guerrero or Raúl. Clemente may be likely to put Guerrero in the spot when using this formation, as Raúl is more of an attacking forward.