Football Daily
The Reign of Spain
23 September 2026
Available for 29 days
Mark Chapman is joined by Guillem Balague and Rafa Benitez to tell the story of how Spain found the formula to keep reproducing success.
The panel examines how Spain established that framework, the special relationship with the Barcelona academy and the Basque influence. Jordi Gratacos, International Director of Academies between 2009-11 and 2016-20 drops by to talk the footballing success of the Barcelona way.
Plus former Chelsea captain and Spain international Cesar Azpilicueta talks identity of the Spanish national team.
TIMECODES:
02:10 Origins with Guillem
10:00 Student of football
15:40 Jordi Gratacos on Barca
28:50 Basque influence & tree trunk throwing!
38:50 Cesar Azpilicueta
45:10 Spain style
49:40 Divisions amongst some fans?
