Spain conquered Europe for a record fourth time on Sunday by defeating England to win Euro 2024, marking what they hope will be the start of a new era of dominance in international football.

Led by the youthful brilliance of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, aged 17 and 22 respectively, Luis de la Fuente's impressive squad is expected to peak in the coming years.

Between 2008 and 2012, Spain dominated international football, winning two European Championships and the 2010 World Cup. However, they struggled in subsequent tournaments until a semi-final appearance at Euro 2020 hinted at a revival. Despite a setback at the 2022 World Cup with a last-16 exit to Morocco, a new era under de la Fuente began.

De la Fuente's Spain showcases versatility in their playing style, no longer relying solely on possession. Their ability to switch tactics was evident in the semi-final against pre-tournament favorites France, where they controlled the ball in the second half but also displayed a direct approach with the dynamic Williams and Yamal on the counter.

Spain's footballing philosophy may have evolved, but their ambitions for international supremacy remain unchanged. "The European champions have been deservedly crowned. Today, I am even prouder, and I hope this impulse will serve to be even better," said De la Fuente. He emphasized the continuous improvement of his team, which boasts an exemplary group of players.

The triumph at the Olympiastadion in Berlin was witnessed by legends of Spain's golden generation, Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, and David Villa, who saw La Roja lift a major trophy for the first time in 12 years.

Despite their success on the pitch, the Spanish football federation faced turmoil off it. The women's team's World Cup victory in August was overshadowed by a scandal involving former president Luis Rubiales, who forcibly kissed player Jenni Hermoso. Rubiales eventually resigned amid mounting pressure, and De la Fuente faced scrutiny for initially supporting him but later apologized, citing "psychological stress."

De la Fuente steadied the ship after a surprising loss to Scotland in Euro qualifying in March 2023, clinching the Nations League three months later. This victory reaffirmed Spain's upward trajectory under his leadership.

Spain's squad is no longer dominated by Real Madrid and Barcelona stars but includes a diverse mix of players, with a strong contingent from Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad. Despite skepticism about their ability to compete with powerhouses like France and England, Spain triumphed over both, as well as hosts Germany and Euro 2020 winners Italy.

"This is a dream. We are the best national team in Europe," Rodri told ITV. "Imagine what we have next -- we are so happy. We made history, but it doesn't stop here. We have talent, and we'll keep going."

Spain's victory was achieved without key players like Barcelona midfielder Gavi, who suffered a knee injury in November, and young center-back Pau Cubarsi. They also missed Pedri in the semi-finals and final due to an injury sustained in the quarter-final against Germany. Nonetheless, De la Fuente is optimistic about Spain's future, confident that their current success is just the beginning.