Year after year, the Spanish continue to get it right when it comes to nurturing top, young talent. Just look at the likes of Thiago Alcantara and Paco Alcacer, who have progressed through multiple youth ranks to feature regularly in the first team.
Spain under 21's have a prodigious reputation and after they announced their squad for upcoming friendlies against Denmark and Italy, a number of Twitter users have suggested that this crop of talent could beat Gareth Southgate's latest England squad.
It really is hard to disagree. The strength in depth here is extraordinary:
This is a group of players who appear regularly for their respected club. Just look at Saul Niguez - a player who has made 39 appearances for Atletico Madrid since the start of August, including seven Champions League starts.
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A player of Niguez's magnitude would be drafted to the majority of international squads, as would several others.
To state the obvious, the future of Spanish football is bright. A large majority of the above play regularly in Europe's top leagues, flourishing in the Champions League with Atletico Madrid or attracting interest from Barcelona. It gives you perspective.
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How do they compare to the current England under 21 side? Well, you can make your own mind up about this one:
How many of those under 21 players would realistically appear in Gareth Southgate's first team squad? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
But can we just take a moment to appreciate Spain's incredible under 21's squad.
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