Spain’s national team coach Luis Enrique has released the 25-man squad for the upcoming Nations League games against Switzerland and Portugal.
Real Betis striker Borja Iglesias and Athletic Club’s Nico Williams are the surprise picks, with Enrique handing them their first call-ups to the Spanish national team.
Iglesias, 29, is enjoying his best form under Manuel Pellegrini, having racked up 23 goals from the start of the last season.
The battle was reportedly between him and Celta Vigo’s Iago Aspas for a place in the squad, and he has now got the nod.
There were widespread speculations on Williams potentially switching allegiance to Ghana, but he has decided to represent La Roja.
Sergio Ramos and David de Gea didn’t make the cut, while Thiago Alcantara and Ansu Fati have been left behind due to fitness reasons.
Ramos was tipped to make a comeback to the Spanish squad after a long absence following an upturn in form at Paris Saint-Germain. However, Enrique has gone with Valencia’s young centre-back Hugo Guillamon instead.
Barcelona players dominate the list with Sergio Busquets, Ferran Torres, Jordi Alba, Pedri, Gavi and Eric Garcia all included.
Marco Asensio has been chosen despite the lack of playing time at Real Madrid this season, while his teammate Dani Carvajal has also been summoned by Enrique.
La Roja are currently at the top of League A Group 2 in the Nations League. They face Switzerland and Portugal on September 24 and 27.
Spain Squad
Goalkeepers: Unai Simon (Athletic Club), David Raya (Brentford), Robert Sanchez (Brighton & Hove Albion).
Defenders: Pau Torres (Villarreal), Eric Garcia (Barcelona), Hugo Guillamon (Valencia), Diego Llorente (Leeds United), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Jose Gaya (Valencia)
Midfielders: Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid), Koke (Atletico Madrid), Rodri (Manchester City), Carlos Soler (Paris Saint-Germain), Pedri (Barcelona), Gavi (Barcelona)
Forwards: Yeremi Pino (Villarreal), Ferran Torres (Barcelona), Alvaro Morata (Atletico Madrid), Borja Iglesias (Real Betis), Nico Willams (Athletic Club), Marco Asensio (Real Madrid), Pablo Sarabia (Paris Saint-Germain)
