Gavi Omitted From Spain Squad For Nations League Quarter-Finals Against Netherlands

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Barcelona's Gavi has been left out of Spain's squad for the Nations League quarter-finals against the Netherlands. The 20-year-old midfielder, who returned to club action last October after an ACL injury, was anticipated to rejoin the national team. However, coach Luis de la Fuente decided not to include him in the squad for the matches scheduled between 20 and 23 March.

Real Madrid's Raul Asencio has received his first senior call-up, while Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez is also included. Asencio has impressed with his performances this season, making 14 LaLiga and eight Champions League appearances. "Raul was having a fantastic season," said De La Fuente. "He had been in lower divisions, but some players speed up their development."

Despite his impressive form on loan at Aston Villa from Paris Saint-Germain, Marco Asensio is another notable absentee from the Spanish lineup. He has scored seven goals in eight appearances but did not make the cut. "There are many good players who could be on this list," De La Fuente explained. "It's a reflection of the high level of Spanish football."

The Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has recalled Memphis Depay, who has contributed two goals and four assists in 10 games for Corinthians this season. Defender Matthijs de Ligt is also part of the Dutch squad. However, Manchester United's Joshua Zirkzee and defenders Stefan de Vrij, Nathan Ake, and Micky van de Ven have been omitted.

The Dutch squad includes goalkeepers Mark Flekken (Brentford), Nick Olij (Sparta Rotterdam), and Bart Verbruggen (Brighton & Hove Albion). Defenders like Mathijs de Ligt (Manchester United) and Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool) are key figures in their lineup. Midfielders Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona) and Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool) add strength to their midfield options.

Spain's roster features goalkeepers David Raya (Arsenal), Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao), and Alex Remiro (Real Sociedad). Defenders include Pedro Porro (Tottenham) and Oscar Mingueza (Celta Vigo). Midfielders such as Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad) and Pedri (Barcelona) are expected to play crucial roles.

The attacking options for Spain include Lamine Yamal (Barcelona), Nico Williams (Bilbao), Ferran Torres (Barcelona), Yeremy Pino (Villarreal), Dani Olmo (Barcelona), Ayoze Perez (Villarreal), Alvaro Morata (Galatasaray), Bryan Zaragoza (Osasuna), Samuel Aghehowa (Porto), and Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad).

Koeman's forward line features Brian Brobbey (Ajax), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool), Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth), Noa Lang (PSV), Donyell Malen (Aston Villa), and Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig). These selections highlight both teams' depth as they prepare for their upcoming encounters.

Both squads reflect strategic choices by their respective coaches as they aim for success in the Nations League quarter-finals. The matches promise intense competition with top talents on display from both nations.