Spain’s World Cup campaign was thrown into disarray before it even began, after head coach Julen Lopetegui was relieved of his duties just two days before their highly anticipated opener with Portugal. The 2010 world champions are still expected to get the better of Iran and Morocco in Group B, but it’s likely to be a bumpy ride for Thiago and Co. under emergency replacement coach Fernando Hierro.
Essentially, it all comes down to what happens on the pitch, and the Bayern playmaker’s sleek footwork and pinpoint passing ability will help him stand out in a midfield bursting with talent. Like Reus, the 27-year-old has been limited to far fewer international appearances than his talent deserves – just 27 prior to this tournament – but a strong end to the Bundesliga campaign and a run of six straight games for La Roja mean he is primed to be one of the star performers in Russia. Helping Spain beat Portugal on Friday would certainly help calm the media frenzy.