Santi Denia

International career Santi was capped twice for Spain, his debut coming on 11 October 1997 in a 1998 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Faroe Islands (3–1 in Gijón, playing the entire match). He still featured in a friendly win over Sweden in March 1998, but did not make the cut for the finals in France.

Previously, Santi appeared for the nation at the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Coaching career After retiring, Denia acted as head coach to Spain under-17s and under-19s. He led the second age group to the UEFA European Championship in 2019.

In December 2022, after Luis de la Fuente was promoted to the full side following Luis Enrique's resignation, Denia was named the former's replacement at the helm of the under-21s. He won the gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics in France, thanks to a Sergio Camello late goal in extra time to beat the hosts.

Denia returned to club duties in summer 2025, being appointed at Qatar Stars League's Al Shahaniya. He was dismissed in November following a poor run of results.

On 31 July 2026, Denia became head coach of Czech Republic, signing a two-year contract and in the process being the first foreigner in history to take charge of the national team.

Career statistics

Managerial statistics

Honours Player Atlético Madrid La Liga: 1995–96

Spain U21 UEFA European Under-21 Championship runner-up: 1996

Manager Spain U17 UEFA European Under-17 Championship: 2017; runner-up: 2016 FIFA U-17 World Cup runner-up: 2017

Spain U19 UEFA European Under-19 Championship: 2019

Spain U23 Summer Olympics gold medal: 2024