Spain Faces England in Nations League Decider Amid Key Injuries
Spain goes into the pivotal Nations League match against England without injured Barcelona players Rodri, Dani Olmo, and Eric García. Coach Luis de la Fuente has given first senior call-ups to two players from Real Betis and Jacobo Ramón, a defender from Como who has a background in the Real Madrid academy.
In addition to the Barcelona trio, Víctor Muñoz is also sidelined due to injury. Spain arrives in strong form, having recently secured a come-from-behind victory over Croatia, winning 2-1 on 6 October thanks to two goals from Mikel Merino. This win marked an impressive streak of 11 consecutive victories. On the same night, England achieved a 3-0 win against Czechia, with Harry Kane scoring twice.
Betis Pair and Jacobo Ramón Earn First Senior Call-Ups
Goalkeeper Valles, 29, will compete for a place in goal as he has played every minute of this season for Betis, featuring in 11 league games and all four matches in their European campaign. Roca, who turns 30 on 26 November, receives his call-up following a period marred by injuries. Ramón, another newcomer, plays in defense for Como after progressing through the ranks at Real Madrid.
Valles joins three other goalkeepers in the squad, including Joan García from Barcelona, who returns after missing previous selections due to injury, along with Pedro Porro, Nico Williams, and Ferran Torres. In addition, Pablo Barrios from Atlético and Ander Barrenetxea from Real Sociedad have also been recalled.
Several familiar faces will be absent for various reasons, including Marcos Llorente, who has retired from international duty. The midfield will be particularly affected by the absence of Rodri and Olmo, prompting De la Fuente to call up Roca as an additional option. Pedri and Fermín are also included in the squad.
Atlético–Barcelona Clash Comes Hours Before Players Report
Several players from the national team will participate in competitive action on Sunday before assembling for the national squad. Atlético Madrid will host Barcelona at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Sunday, 8 November at 21:00, in a key LaLiga matchday 12.
The encounter carries significant implications for the top of the league standings, with Barcelona leading on 30 points. Atlético, having secured victories in their last seven league matches, could rise to the top with another win.
Following the match, Barcelona will send João Garcia, Pau Cubarsí, Pedri, Fermín, and Lamine Yamal to join the national team. Meanwhile, Atlético will provide Marc Pubill, Álex Grimaldo, Álex Baena, and Barrios, making for a quick transition for numerous players from both clubs.
The national squad is scheduled to report on Monday, 9 November. Spain will then face Czechia at the Epet Arena in Prague on Thursday, 12 November, with kick-off set for 20:45.
