Luis Enrique Explains David de Gea Snub From Spain Squad. Luis Enrique has given an explanation for why David de Gea would not be selected for Spain’s upcoming friendly against Albania and Iceland.
La Roja will play two games in the 2021/22 season, in Barcelona and A Coruna, before a UEFA Nations four-game marathon in June.
Enrique has kept most of his squad from their last 2022 World Cup qualifiers at the end of 2021, with de Gea’s omission being one of only a few changes.
Raya, who has never played for Spain at any level, has improved dramatically in recent years, keeping five clean sheets in 15 games in his first Premier League season. Last summer, the Brentford goalkeeper was heavily connected with Arsenal. He is known for his passing abilities and ability to play as a sweeper-keeper.
As a result, it is Raya’s unique qualities that have persuaded Enrique to give him his first call-up, thereby leaving De Gea out of the squad. No. 1 in Spain on a regular basis Unai Simon and Robert Sanchez of Brighton & Hove Albion have taken the other two goalkeeping positions.
“It is part of the tracing we do with the goalkeepers,” said Enrique, explaining why he had awarded Raya his first call-up. “He is a player who is doing very well.
“I really want to see it in the context of the selection. He has the necessary profile to play with us.”
♥️ ¡UNO SIEMPRE VUELVE AL LUGAR DONDE FUE FELIZ!
🏟️ Desde Montjuïc, escenario icónico del deporte español, @LUISENRIQUE21 desvela la lista de convocados para los primeros encuentros de 2022.
🤩 Barcelona, A Coruña… ¡¡Nos vemos muy pronto!!#VamosEspaña pic.twitter.com/esDbluxBTh
— Selección Española de Fútbol (@SeFutbol) March 18, 2022
The only reason Enrique could provide for leaving De Gea out of his squad as Spain prepares for the World Cup later this year is because of his style of play. Despite United’s dismal season, De Gea has been a bright spot, putting in some great displays and making a run of fine saves.
David de Gea Spain decision could be a sign of things to come at Manchester United. #mufc https://t.co/SCGflsM8C9 pic.twitter.com/F8VVZ2CajQ
— Man United News (@ManUtdMEN) March 19, 2022
Luis Enrique has announced the 23 players he has chosen for La Roja’s upcoming international break. On March 26th, his team will face Albania, followed by Iceland on March 29th. Both matches will be held in Barcelona’s Estadi Olmpic Llus Companys.