On his first day with the national team, Raúl Asencio talked about his childhood dreams: “Since I was young, I have always dreamed of something like this.” Spain formally announced the squad for the highly anticipated UEFA Nations League quarterfinal match against the Netherlands. The most notable news was the unexpected exclusion of Yeremy Pino, Ferran Torres, who is dealing with an injury, and Raúl Asencio, the only Real Madrid player listed among the 26 called up. UEFA regulations only permit 23 players to be registered for games, forcing coach De la Fuente to make difficult choices by dropping three players. A few technical difficulties delayed the announcement of the final list, which finally came early this afternoon.

This indicates that young Bournemouth player Dean Huijsen has surpassed the Real Madrid player and could get the opportunity to make his debut against his native country.  Despite having dual citizenship, Huijsen chose to represent Spain because he was reared in Malaga.

Pau Cubarsí or Huijsen, who has performed well in the Premier League, will be Le Normand’s defensive partner now that he has been confirmed for the starting lineup and Laporte, Iñigo Martínez, and now Asencio all out.  Due to his stellar performances at FC Barcelona, the Barcelona player has the advantage of having made his debut and has a wealth of knowledge in high-stakes games.

 Because there were too many forwards available for the call-up, Yeremi Pino was the second player removed from the squad.  The teenage Samu from Porto, who will eventually play as the third striker behind Morata and Ayoze, was vying for a spot alongside the Villareal forward.