Spain XI vs England – Predicted line-up and team news!

The England national team returns to competitive action for the first time following their disappointing exit in the World Cup semi-finals and their subsequent third-place finish. They prepare to encounter Spain in the inaugural match of the current Nations League campaign.

Thomas Tuchel’s squad faces a formidable challenge in their Nations League A3 group opening fixture against the reigning world and European champions, marking their first encounter since the Euro 2024 final—a result that proved deeply disappointing for the Three Lions.

Luis de la Fuente has committed to extending his tenure as Spain’s head coach through at least 2032, while Tuchel continues to lead England despite ongoing scrutiny regarding their World Cup performance, with considerable attention focused on his team’s response.

The countdown is on 🤩

A week to go until our #ThreeLions are back at @wembleystadium to take on Spain 👊 https://t.co/6gsCknZiC9

— England (@England) September 19, 2026

The Wembley encounter will feature two prominent contenders for this year’s Ballon d’Or in direct competition, as England’s captain Harry Kane confronts Spain’s leading forward Lamine Yamal. Kane achieved an exceptional 73 goals across club and international football during the previous season.

The group’s top two finishers will advance to the Nations League quarter-finals, with additional fixtures against Croatia and Czech Republic scheduled during this international window. Below is comprehensive information regarding this fixture.

When is England v Spain?

England will play Spain at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, 26 September, with the match commencing at 7.45pm BST.

Predicted line-ups

England XI: Pickford; Quansah, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Scott; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane

Spain XI: Simon; E Garcia, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, N Williams; Oyarzabal