Spain World Cup Squad: De la Fuente Omits Carvajal, Includes Joan Garcia

Spain's national team manager, Luis de la Fuente, has revealed his preliminary squad ahead of this summer's World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The announcement features several unexpected inclusions and notable exclusions, most prominently the maiden call-up for Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia and the omission of Real Madrid's seasoned right-back Dani Carvajal, who has struggled with persistent injuries over the past two years.

La Roja is scheduled to play two friendly matches during the March international break, providing de la Fuente with a final opportunity to assess his players before the World Cup. The planned "Finalissima" against Argentina was canceled due to unresolved venue issues following its relocation from Qatar. Consequently, Spain will now face Serbia on March 27th at La Ceramica and Egypt on March 30th at the RCDE Stadium.

Carvajal's Omission and Joan Garcia's Debut Opportunity

Carvajal's absence poses a significant question mark for de la Fuente, especially given his crucial role in Spain's Euro 2024 triumph. However, Marcos Llorente and Pedro Porro have been preferred at right-back for this provisional squad. In goal, de la Fuente has selected four keepers – Garcia, Unai Simon, David Raya, and Alex Remiro – although only three are expected to make the final World Cup roster.

The squad also sees the return of several key players, including Carlos Soler, Ander Barrenetxea, Yeremy Pino, and Rodri Hernandez. Pablo Fornals and Borja Iglesias have retained their spots, although they are anticipated to be on the periphery of the final selection. Notably, Osasuna's Victor Munoz and Arsenal's Cristhian Mosquera have received their first senior call-ups, joining Joan Garcia.

Key Absences from the Squad

Compared to the previous squad announced in November, some prominent players are absent beyond Carvajal. These include Dani Vivian, a regular for La Roja since Euro 2024, and Aleix Garcia. Other significant omissions are Mikel Merino, Fabian Ruiz, Samu Aghehowa, and Pablo Barrios, all currently sidelined by injury. Aghehowa is confirmed to miss the World Cup, while Barrios is expected to return in April. Merino and Fabian hope to recover in time for consideration. Atletico Madrid's Marc Pubill and Rayo Vallecano's Jorge de Frutos also missed out due to fitness concerns.