Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea is out of the Spain squad for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar after the Spanish manager, Luis Enrique, released the 55-man provisional list.
The 26 Man List for the World Cup will be selected from the 55-Man Provisional list before The World Cup kick start in November 2022.
David De Gea has made 45 appearances for the Spanish national team since making his debut against El Salvador in 2014.
The goalkeeper has not featured for Spain for the past two years. In addition, De Gea’s last appearance was in the Nations League in 2020 where Spain were beaten by Ukraine 1-0.
The Manchester United goalkeeper was criticized heavily for his positioning and many thought as a World Cup goalkeeper he should be able to make the save against Ukraine.
According to Futballnews, Enrique selected five goalkeepers from the 55-man list. Atletico Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon, David Sanchez of Brighton, Hove and Albion, and Brentford goalkeeper David Raya are expected to fly to Qatar to represent Spain.
Enrique also included the backup goalkeeper, Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Getafe’s David Soria. In the case of injuries, Enrique may decide to call on this goalkeeper.
The only other known players that have made Spain’s list are full-backs Alejandro Balde, Jordi Alba, and Jose Gaya.
It may be argued that De Gea does not complement Enrique’s playing style. The Spaniard has previously come under fire for his distribution and hesitation when in possession of the ball.
However, David De Gea is officially the second Manchester United player to miss the World Cup after Netherlands manager Louis Van Gaal omitted Donny Van De Beek from the Holland squad.
Apart from that, Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial are both probable to miss out too for England and France.
Surprising Names That Made The Spanish Provisional List
Atletico Bilbao winger Nico William, the younger brother of Inaki William, who failed to play for Ghana’s national team, made the 55-man provisional list.
When William made his debut against Switzerland, the winger performed beyond expectations with his dribbling skills and good pace
Sergio Ramos, a veteran defender, made the list as well, but due to his age and inconsistency in the French League, the former Real Madrid defender is unlikely to make the 26-man list.
What Next For David De Gea And Spain
David De Gea will be in the goal post when Manchester United play against West Ham on October 30, 2022. A win can make Manchester United move to the top 4 for the first time this season.
Spain will play against Jordan on November 18, 2022 for the friendly match and that is the last preparation before the World Cup.
