Arsene Wenger is hoping for more new additions. Photo: Yui Mok/PA Wire

The Gunners manager believes Spain’s style is designed to avoid defeat

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has criticised Spain, labelling them boring.

The World Cup and European Championship holders wowed football between 2008 and 2010 but in Euro 2012 Vicente Del Bosque has produced a formation of 4-6-0, with Cesc Fabregas playing in a ‘false nine’ position.

“These guys are more than outstanding footballers; they are really intelligent and they are winners,” Wenger told Eurosport. “I want to give them credit for that.

“However, they have betrayed their philosophy and turned it into something more negative.

“Originally they wanted possession in order to attack and win the game; now it seems to be first and foremost a way not to lose.

“They have become more conservative, and they don’t want to give the ball up because they don’t want to give you a chance to score.

“That’s the impression you get from Euro 2012.

“Yes, it can be hard to break down defensive opponents, but this is a challenge that confronts every successful team.

“They are still absolutely outstanding, but they have less penetration than before.”