Answer
In his senior debut for Spain, Asier Illarramendi replaced Andrés Iniesta, a renowned midfield maestro. Illarramendi's introduction marked a tactical shift, adding defensive stability and ball-winning prowess to the team. While Iniesta's absence was certainly noticeable, Illarramendi's performance justified the decision, showcasing his ability to adapt to different roles and contribute effectively to the team's success.