Mikel Oyarzabal has become Spain's "most decisive player" during the World Cup, stepping into the spotlight with a series of impactful performances. His current form, characterized by 17 goals in his last 16 international starts, including four at the current tournament, marks a significant resurgence for the forward.
His journey to this point has been marked by perseverance. A ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee caused him to miss the 2022 World Cup. However, four years later, Oyarzabal is in the best form of his career, with his last two seasons showing remarkable consistency since his recovery.
"His last two seasons, since he recovered, are the best of his career," noted one observer. "Four goals in the World Cup - our most decisive player, no doubt."
Spain has found success with Oyarzabal as a central attacking figure, a role that contrasts with their approach in Euro 2012 where they famously played without a recognized striker. "Sometimes people are in doubt about Spain because of the centre-forward, but Oyarzabal is doing the job," commented former Spain defender Cesar Azpilicueta. Oyarzabal has transitioned from playing on the right wing to a more central role, allowing him to be a consistent goal threat.
Since the beginning of the previous year, only Norway's Erling Haaland has scored more international goals than Oyarzabal among European players. Oyarzabal also achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first Spanish player to score twice in a World Cup knockout match since Emilio Butragueno in 1986.
His effectiveness is also amplified by the presence of 18-year-old Lamine Yamal. Yamal's skill on the ball and dribbling ability consistently draw defensive attention, creating valuable space for Oyarzabal to operate in. "When you have someone in your team like Lamine Yamal who attracts so much attention, you know you will get more space," said former Germany midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger. "Oyarzabal uses that space, gets the ball, and scores goals."