Euro 2024: Steve McManaman analyzes the key factors that will determine the outcome of the England v Spain final on the field.

England’s men’s team are on the brink of ending their 60-year wait for success at major tournaments as they prepare for the European Championship final. While their performances may not have always been pretty, the team has shown resilience and determination to reach this stage.

In the last 16 against Slovakia, England were just 60 seconds away from elimination before Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane secured victory in extra time. They then went on to draw 1-1 with Switzerland before triumphing in a penalty shoot-out. In the semi-finals against the Netherlands, they once again fell behind but fought back to secure a place in the final.

Their opponents, Spain, have been the standout team of Euro 2024, dazzling in the group stages and defeating Germany and France. They have star quality and a strong midfield, led by Rodri and Fabian Ruiz.

Former England international Steve McManaman believes that limiting their time on the ball will be crucial for England’s success. McManaman also highlighted the importance of patience and discipline against Spain, who are known for their possession-based style of play. He acknowledged that Spain will dictate possession but emphasized the need for England to be ruthless in counter-attacks.

Spain’s young talents, Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, have been impressive throughout the tournament. Yamal, in particular, has stood out as a 16-year-old, becoming the youngest goalscorer in the tournament’s history. McManaman praised his all-round play and confidence on the ball.

To combat Spain’s attacking threat, McManaman suggested that England must win their personal battles on the flanks. He mentioned the importance of players like Kieran Trippier, Marc Guehi, Kyle Walker, and John Stones in nullifying the threat posed by Williams and Yamal.

In conclusion, McManaman emphasized that winning personal battles will be crucial for England’s success in the final. If each player can come out on top in their individual duels, England will have a strong chance of lifting the trophy.