Why does Spain prosper while Italy can’t even reach the World Cup?

Spain’s success is not simply the result of another golden generation. It is the product of a long-term strategy that began after the disappointing tournaments of the early 2000s. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), together with the country’s major clubs, changed its development philosophy. Rather than emphasizing physicality, the academies prioritized: technical excellence, ball control in tight spaces, tactical intelligence, possession-based football and decision-making under pressure.

Although La Masia remains the most famous academy, clubs such as Real Madrid, Villarreal, Athletic Bilbao, Real Sociedad and Valencia have also invested heavily in youth development. As a result, players graduate with similar football principles, making the transition to the national team much smoother.

Spain has avoided the generation gaps experienced by many national teams. After legends like Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, Sergio Busquets and David Silva, another wave of elite talent quickly emerged: Rodri, Pedri, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí.

Even during Spain’s relatively disappointing performances at the World Cup between 2014 and 2022, the country’s football philosophy continued to evolve through successful club football and modern training methods.

Spain has also become one of the world’s leading producers of elite coaches. Names such as Pep Guardiola, Luis Enrique, Mikel Arteta, Unai Emery, Xabi Alonso and Andoni Iraola helped popularize: high pressing, positional play, flexible tactical systems and intelligent ball circulation. Their influence extends far beyond Spain, shaping football across Europe.

Meanwhile, Spanish clubs continue to compete at the highest level:

• Real Madrid remains Champions League specialists.
• Barcelona continues to produce world-class academic graduates.
• Sevilla dominated the Europa League.

This elite environment ensures the Spanish internationals constantly gain experience in high-pressure competitions. The reward was sustained success, culminating in the Euro 2024 title and another deep run at the World Cup in 2026.

Italy’s recent history paints a completely different picture. Despite winning the 2006 FIFA World Cup and winning Euro 2020, the Azzurri failed to qualify for three consecutive World Cups, an unimaginable scenario for a four-time world champion. Club football is also declining. Since Inter’s Champions League triumph in 2010, no Italian club has claimed Europe’s biggest prize.

Unlike Spain, Italy has never established a national football philosophy. Serie A clubs continue to follow different development models, leaving young players with inconsistent tactical training before reaching the national team. Another big problem is Serie A’s reluctance to trust young players. Many coaches favor seasoned veterans looking for immediate results, delaying opportunities for emerging talent.

In contrast, Spain has confidently given important roles to teenagers like Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Pau Cubarsí, accelerating their development at the highest level.

Italy’s historic strengths – defensive organization and tactical discipline – once dominated European football. Modern football, however, increasingly rewards: high pressing, quick transitions, technical midfield play and ball possession. Spain has successfully adapted to these trends. Italy has struggled to evolve at the same pace.

Italy still has a huge footballing tradition, financial resources and passionate fans. But these forces alone are no longer enough. To consistently compete with Europe’s elite again, Italian football may need to embrace reforms similar to those implemented by Spain more than two decades ago:

• Building a unified philosophy for youth development.
• Give young players meaningful first-team opportunities first.
• Modernize training methods and tactical education.
• Invest in long-term planning rather than short-term success.

Spain’s rise demonstrates that sustainable excellence comes from systems rather than individual stars. Until Italy undertakes a similar transformation, the gap between the two footballing powers is likely to remain.

Sources: Znews

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