Spanish football, which are rightfully known for its rich history and passion, has witnessed the emergence of exceptional talents who have donned the iconic red jersey of La Roja at remarkably tender ages.
These young prodigies not only captured the imagination of football enthusiasts worldwide but also played pivotal roles in defining Spain’s footballing legacy.
In this article, we explore the top five youngest players ever to represent the Spanish national football team. Their youthful exuberance, raw talent, and unwavering dedication have left an unforgettable mark on the sport and continue to inspire generations of footballers in Spain and beyond.
Youngest Footballers to play for Spain
| # | Player | Date | Result | Age at that time | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lamine Yamal Right Winger | Sep 8, 2023 | 1:7 | 16 years 01 month 26 days | ||
| 2 | Gavi Central Midfield | Oct 6, 2021 | 1:2 | 17 years 02 months 01 day | ||
| 3 | Ángel Zubieta Midfield | Apr 26, 1936 | 1:0 | 17 years 09 months 09 days | ||
| 4 | Ansu Fati Left Winger | Sep 3, 2020 | 1:1 | 17 years 10 months 03 days | ||
| 5 | Bojan Krkic Second Striker | Sep 10, 2008 | 4:0 | 18 years 13 days | ||
| 6 | Pedro Regueiro Midfield | Jan 8, 1928 | 2:2 | 18 years 20 days | ||
| 7 | Pedri Central Midfield | Mar 25, 2021 | 1:1 | 18 years 04 months 00 days | ||
| 8 | Josep Samitier Attacking Midfield | Aug 28, 1920 | 1:0 | 18 years 06 months 26 days | ||
| 9 | José Muguerza Midfield | Jun 14, 1930 | 2:0 | 18 years 08 months 30 days | ||
| 10 | Cesc Fàbregas Central Midfield | Mar 1, 2006 | 3:2 | 18 years 09 months 25 days | ||
5. Bojan Krkic
Bojan’s footballing journey began at a young age, nurtured by the renowned youth academy of FC Barcelona, La Masia. Known for his blistering pace, sharp footballing mind, and a knack for finding the back of the net, Bojan quickly rose through the ranks of Barcelona’s youth system, making headlines for his prolific goal-scoring exploits at every level. Bojan’s dazzling performances with Barcelona’s senior team earned him a place in the spotlight. His combination of skill and composure in front of goal didn’t go unnoticed by the Spanish national team selectors.
Aged just 17 years 10 months and 3 days, Bojan Krkic made his senior international debut for Spain in the match against Turkey. On that day he not only made his debut but in the 11th minute of the match he successfully managed to score his first goal for his country. Despite a career filled with ups and downs, Bojan Krkic’s debut for the Spanish national team remains a cherished memory for football fans. It symbolized the emergence of a young talent who had the potential to follow in the footsteps of Spain’s legendary footballers.
4. Ansu Fati
Another Barca’s La Masia wonderkid who shook the footballing world is none other than Ansu Fati. At just 17 years, 10 months and 3 days he got his first minutes for his country under Luis Enrique back in 2020 when the La Roja played against Germany in their Nation’s League game. In that encounter, Fati additionally became the 800th full Spain international as he replaced veteran Jesus Navas at the break, as well as the first Roja member to have been born in Guinea-Bissau.
Fati took another jump just on his very next match as coach Enrique gave him his very first international start against Ukraine and Ansu did not disappoint. Within the first half he was very dangerous and was frequently unlocking the opposition’s defences and eventually because of his impact, he managed to get is first goal by scoring from outside the box. It was indeed a memorable game week for him which surely inspired many. This summer he has made a huge move in his career by going to Brighton on a loan deal and showcase his extraordinary talent in the most competitive league in the world.
3. Angel Zubieta
Ángel Zubieta Redondo was a Spanish football player who played as a midfielder for Athletic Bilbao and the Spain national team. He was born in Galdakao, Basque Country, Spain, on July 17, 1918.
Angel Zubieta, who played much of his footballing career in Argentina for his club San Lorenzo after fleeing his to his native city Bilbao during the Spanish Civil War. After fleeing to Spain, he performed incredibly well and debuted for the Spanish football team at just 17 years, 9 months and 9 days against Czechoslovakia in April 1936. It was the first of just two appearances he made for Spain prior to the outbreak of the conflict.
After retiring as a player, Zubieta took up management. He had spells in charge of Athletic Bilbao, Real Valladolid, Belenenses, Real Jaén, and Pumas UNAM. He also worked as a scout for Athletic Bilbao.
Zubieta died in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on October 28, 1985, at the age of 67. He is considered one of the greatest Spanish footballers of all time.
Zubieta’s contribution to Spanish football is immense. He was a gifted player who was technically proficient, tactically astute, and physically strong. He was also a leader on and off the pitch. His playing style was characterized by his elegance, his passing ability, and his vision. He was also a hard worker and a great team player.
Zubieta is a true legend of Spanish football. He was a pioneer of the game in Spain, and he helped to put Spanish football on the map. He is an inspiration to all young footballers, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
2. Gavi
At Just 17 years, 2 months and 1 day, Gavi did beat the record set by Angel Zubieta and made his first international appearance for his country in a massive Nation’s League semi-final against the defending Euro Champions Italy. It was indeed a memorable debut for him as La Roja managed to end Italy’s 37-game unbeaten winning streak by defeating them 2-1 and went on to the finals.
He is yet another La Masia graduate and has been on the rise for the past few years not only for Spain but for his club Barcelona as well. Because of his incredible intensity and phenomenal talent that he has shown while playing, he has become a crucial part of Xavi’s plan for Barcelona. Some people have even compared him to the likes of Fabregas and Iniesta and there is no doubt that he the potential to achieve massive success for both club and country.
1. Lamine Yamal
Barcelona’s sensation Lamine Yamal made history last week as he became the youngest player to ever play for Spain. At just 16 years, 1 month and 26 days, he has now beaten the record previously held by his club teammate Gavi. He gained his first minutes against Georgia in the Euro 2024 qualifier after coming on in the 44th minute and not only did gained his debut but he made it a memorable one by also scoring a stunning goal which also made him the youngest goal scorer for the La Roja.
Yamal had already been excellent the Barca’s youth academy and due to his performances, last season he got his debut for the Barca first team under Xavi at just 15 years against Real Betis. There is no doubt that he has the potential to be one of the best players in the world in the coming future and he is surely one to watch out for.
In conclusion, the top five youngest players ever to grace the Spanish national football team have left an enduring legacy in the realm of Spanish football. While their careers have taken different paths since those early debuts, the enduring spirit of these five footballing prodigies continues to inspire generations of football enthusiasts.
These players were successful in demonstrating that age is just a number when passion, dedication, and talent unite on the pitch. As we honour their achievements, we eagerly anticipate the rise of new talents who may one day join the ranks of the youngest players to represent La Roja and continue the rich tradition of Spanish football excellence.
FAQ
Who is the youngest football to represent Spain?
The youngest football player to represent Spain is Lamine Yamal. He made his debut for the Spain national team on September 8, 2023, in a Euro 2024 qualifier against Georgia. He was 16 years and 57 days old at the time. He came on as a substitute in the 44th minute and scored a goal in the 74th minute.
What is the age of Lamine Yamal, the youngest footballer for Spain?
Lamine Yamal was 16 years and 57 days old at the time of his debut. He came on as a substitute in the 44th minute and scored a goal in the 74th minute agaisnt Georgia.
