The World Cup squad for Spain has been announced by manager Luis Enrique, and neither Thiago Alcantara of Liverpool nor Sergio Ramos of Paris Saint-Germain are included.
Ramos, a former Real Madrid defender who was a member of the 2010 World Cup-winning Spain team, had hoped to play in this tournament but was not chosen, despite begging Enrique to include him.
Ramos stated last week, “Everyone knows what playing for Spain means to me.
“I feel good, I’m available, but it’s a decision that doesn’t depend on me, it depends on the coach.
“I respect him a lot. I can only continue playing and waiting. I hope to have the opportunity to participate in a new World Cup.”
Due to fitness difficulties this season, Liverpool star Thiago and Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga are both ineligible.
David de Gea, the goalkeeper for Manchester United, wasn’t even named to Spain’s preliminary squad, but Robert Sanchez of Brighton and David Raya of Brentford will travel to Qatar.
Aymeric Laporte and Rodri of Manchester City, Chelsea veteran Cesar Azpilicueta, and attackers Ferran Torres and Alvaro Morata, who were formerly of City and Chelsea, respectively, are also selected in the group.
Young forward Ansu Fati of Barcelona and 20-year-old forward Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao have both been added by Enrique.
Full Squad Below
GOALKEEPERS: Unai Simón, Robert Sánchez, David Raya
DEFENDERS: Dani Carvajal, César Azpilicueta, Eric García, Hugo Guillamón, Pau Torres, Aymeric Laporte, Jordi Alba, Jose Gayá
MIDFIELDERS: Sergio Busquets, Rodri, Gavi, Carlos Soler, Marcos Llorente, Pedri, Koke
FORWARDS: Ferran Torres, Pablo Sarabia, Yeremy Pino, Alvaro Morata, Marco Asensio, Nico Williams, Ansu Fati, Dani Olmo.
