Luis de Guindos admitted the Spanish have been underrepresented Europe and in the EU, but pledged the situation would be reversed. 

And the Minister of Economy said he was “convinced” the next major monetary role - currently occupied by a Portuguese national - on the continent would go to a Spaniard. 

In an interview published in Madrid-based newspaper El Pais, he said: "I am convinced that we are going to have more weight.

“The next position that arises in the executive of the European Central Bank (ECB) will be for Spain.

“I’m convinced of that.”

His claims come after the confirmation of Portuguese economist Mario Centeno as the new Eurogroup boss earlier this year.

Mr Centeno is to take up his new position at the head of the powerful gathering - attended by finance ministers from across the eurozone - in the New Year.

And Mr de Guindos mounted a challenge for the post in 2015, but his disastrous bid ended in embarrassment for Spain after he failed to pick up a single vote.

Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy’s government is counting on taking up the next major ECB role to become available next year.

Vitor Constancio, who currently serves as vice president of the bank, is due to leave the post in May 2018.

Despite not being among the more populated countries in the EU, Portugal has enjoyed far more clout than its neighbours to the east in recent years, occupying the Presidency of the European Commission and now the UN General Secretariat.

However despite Madrid’s desire for more influence in the EU, Spain has yet to announce a candidate for the ECB post.

Mr de Guindos has refused to state whether he plans to throw his hat in the ring, but with the deadline for nominations looming, he will need to announce his candidacy within the next few weeks.

Additional reporting by Maria Ortega.