Overview
Through incredible insider access and interviews with all the big names—including Fernando Torres, Xavi, Iker Casillas, David Villa, Cesc Fàbregas, Andrés Iniesta, and Gerard Piqué—Graham Hunter tells the story of the greatest achievement in the history of international soccer. Between 2008 and 2012, Spain were the best team on the planet, winning three consecutive tournament—two European Championships plus the World Cup in South Africa—with a thrilling brand of soccer. Hunter's access to the greatest international team of all time was unparalleled. He was inside the dressing room for the celebrations after the World Cup final and had a fly-on-the-wall perspective on how they trained and prepared for their historic achievements.Reviews
"Having been part of La Roja's inner circle since 2008, Hunter provides superb insight into how, in the words of Casillas, they have 'made something difficult appear normal.' Packed with interviews, above all else it serves as a stark reminder of how tough it'll be for the brilliant but ageing squad next year. ****" —Four Four Two
"Graham Hunter's fine new book is full of details and memories best gathered by an embedded, Spanish-speaking reporter. What Hunter captures best is the camaraderie among this gifted bunch of players." —Independent
"Graham Hunter's Spain is a typically boisterous, entertaining account of how the national team rose from the burden of heavy criticism to being the best in the world. Hunter's access - first revealed in his award-winning Barca - is astounding. This is a book that carries the atmosphere and secrets of the Spanish dressing-room to the wider world." —Herald
"Hunter has rubbed shoulders with stars such as Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi, but has become closest with the Spanish players – and he has used that unique access to tell the inside story of how Spain won the World Cup and last two Euros. A fascinating read." —Daily Record
"Graham Hunter, who has been enthralled with Spanish football and culture since trucking 2,000 miles from Aberdeen to follow the 1982 World Cup in Spain, has followed up his award-winning book on the making of Barça's wonder team with a provocative account of what makes Spain's invincible team tick. Part of it stems from Aragonés's charismatic leadership and the collegiate management style of his successor, Vicente del Bosque, but much, too, comes from the country's nurturing of its underage talent." —Irish NewsAuthor Biography
Graham Hunter is a journalist of international reputation and covers Spanish soccer for Sky Sports, the BBC and newspapers and magazines across the world. He was the only journalist inside the Spain dressing room immediately after the World Cup final win in 2010.