Dani Carvajal’s difficult end to the season has taken another setback after he was left out of Spain’s preliminary 55-man World Cup squad by manager Luis de la Fuente.
The Real Madrid captain, whose contract is not expected to be renewed beyond this summer, has endured an injury-hit campaign that has severely limited his involvement
. He has made just 20 appearances across all competitions, totaling 885 minutes, with fitness issues repeatedly disrupting his rhythm at a crucial stage of the season.
Despite previously offering encouragement about the defender’s importance, De la Fuente has now left him out of his extended plans, dealing a major blow to his hopes of a final international tournament.
However, the Spain coach had earlier said, “Carvajal is a very important figure in our locker room, a captain in capital letters.
“We love him and we will be looking forward to his recovery. I talked to him yesterday and I know what’s going on.
“His injury is nothing serious, but he needs time to reach the level he has.”
One of the surprises in the squad is the inclusion of Gonzalo García, who has broken into Real Madrid’s first team this season with over 30 appearances and several key goals.
Alongside him, Fran García and Dean Huijsen also represent Madrid in the preliminary list, offering experience, solidity, and attacking flair respectively.
Spain’s 26-player World Cup squad will not be officially announced until May 30, but national teams were asked to submit an extended 55-man shortlist this week.
Since then, several names included—and omitted, have begun to surface, with further reports also hinting at the eventual final selection.
It has been reported that Barcelona midfielder, Gavi is expected to make the final cut, alongside club teammates Joan García and Pau Cubarsí.
However, Eric García remains uncertain, with his place in the squad still hanging in the balance as the final decision approaches.
