Spain’s Squad for the Final Nations Group Stage Matches Revealed

With the November international break fast approaching, national team head coaches are rolling out their 26-man rosters, and Spain’s Luis de la Fuente is no exception. The 63-year-old manager has just announced La Roja’s squad for their final two Nations League group stage games that feature some unexpected absences and a few intriguing selections that have fans buzzing.

In their last to Nations League group stage match ups La Roja face Denmark (on 15th November) and Switzerland (on 18th November). After clinching the 2024 Euros title, this Spanish team are on the brink of direct qualification to the quarterfinals stage of the competition. Having already accumulated 10 points from four games, La Roja need just a draw against Denmark to book their spot in the quarterfinals. Spain have already won the Nations League once before in 2023, when they defeated Croatia on penalties. So, de la Fuente’s men will be eager to defend their crown. To achieve this, the 63-year-old Spaniard has introduced some fresh blood into his 26-man squad. 

Headlining the list are Barcelona's Marc Casadó and Porto’s Samu Omorodion, two players whose impressive starts this season have been hard to ignore. Casadó, the 21-year-old midfield revelation, has not only added balance to Barcelona's high-octane style but has showcased elite field vision, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s rising stars. Meanwhile, Omorodion has been electric for Porto, already racking up an astounding 11 goals in just 12 appearances.  

Joining them is another first-time call-up: Athletic Bilbao’s defensive stalwart, Aitor Paredes. Known for his consistent form and rock-solid performances, Paredes has been on the national team radar for months, and his spot in De la Fuente’s 26-man roster feels well-earned. However, De la Fuente has also left out a few players who are excelling for their clubs in recent months. Inigo Martinez, Alejandro Balde, Aymeric Laporte and Aleix Garcia have all been left out of the squad. Additionally, key players like Rodri, Dani Carvajal, Ferran Torres, Pau Cubarsi have all missed out because of injuries.  

But despite being fit, Barcelona’s Gavi hasn’t been included in Spain’s 26-man squad. The 20-year-old midfielder suffered an ACL injury last year while on international duty with Spain. As a result, Gavi has just recovered from that gruesome injury, and that’s the reason De la Fuenta hasn’t selected him. According to Fabrizio Romano, “Gavi, not included as part of Spain squad as national team staff understand Barça plan to protect the player after one year out. Gavi remains key part of Spain plans as he’s fully expected to make the squad in March, next international break.” 

Spain’s 26-Man Squad for November’s Nation League Matches 

• Goalkeepers: David Raya, Álex Remiro, Robert Sánchez  
• Defenders: Pedro Porro, Mingueza, Vivian, Laporte, Pau Torres, Cucurella, Grimaldo, Paredes  
• Midfielders: Merino, Zubimendi, Fabián, Pedri, Olmo, Baena, Casadó  
• Forwards: Morata, Yamal, Nico Williams, Yéremi Pino, Oyarzabal, Ayoze, Samu Omorodion, and Bryan Zaragoza. 

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