In the upcoming European Championship final, the clash between Spain and England is not only a battle of technique and tactics, but also a test of physical fitness. Former Real Madrid fitness coach José Saint-Martin has conducted an in-depth analysis of both teams’ physical condition, pointing out Spain’s clear advantage in physical reserves, adding more chances of winning to this decisive battle.
The intensive schedule throughout the season has posed a significant challenge to players’ physical fitness, particularly towards the end of the season. Carvajal’s comments before the quarter-final revealed this issue: “It is impossible for players to maintain a high level throughout the year when playing every three days.” However, Spain seems to have found a solution, and their physical management strategy has received high praise from Saint-Martin.
According to Saint-Martin, Spain’s physical condition is excellent: “Luis de la Fuente’s coaching staff has found the perfect balance, ensuring that key players receive appropriate recovery, avoiding over-training or resting, which has put Spain in excellent shape on the eve of the final.” In contrast, England has endured two extra-time matches, and the fatigue among their players is evident.
In terms of data, the theoretical starting lineup of Spain has accumulated a total playing time of 4593 minutes, while England’s corresponding figure reaches 5839 minutes – meaning England has played almost 1300 minutes more than Spain. This gap is huge in terms of physical consumption, especially in the European Championship, where players’ physical fitness and recovery ability are pushed to their limits.
Not only do England have the five players with the most playing time, but they also occupy five of the seven players with the longest running distance, including Rice (74.9 km), Foden (67.9 km), Bellingham (65.4 km), Walker (65.2 km) and Kane (63.1 km). Saint-Martin specifically mentioned the condition of Spanish players Nico and Yamal: “They are like airplanes, full of energy.” In contrast, England’s Bellingham is clearly not in good physical condition.
For England manager Southgate, Spain’s extra day of rest is a significant advantage, “This has been an issue in the past few tournaments, and we have to make sure our players are as recovered as possible.”
Saint-Martin explained that while a player’s cardiovascular system can recover quickly within 2-3 days, muscle system recovery is more complex, especially considering the frequent acceleration and deceleration movements in football.
However, despite the obvious physical disadvantage, Saint-Martin also reminded Spain not to underestimate England: “Talent and mental state are equally important, and England has become stronger after overcoming many difficulties.” Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about Spain: “This is a final, anything can happen, but I believe Spain will be crowned European champions.”
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