‘I do not look at where players come from’: Spain coach on not selecting any Real Madrid player for World Cup | OneFootball

The announcement of the Spanish National Team squad for the FIFA World Cup next month was made on Monday, but it brought no reason to cheer whatsoever for the Real Madrid dressing room.

Not a single member of Los Blancos’ dressing room was included in the 26-man squad for the mega event, not even Dean Huijsen who has been a regular member of the team in recent call-ups.

The other major disappointment was the lack of Dani Carvajal’s name, especially after all the years of service he has faithfully given his country. In what could have been his last World Cup, handing the former captain a place would not be far-fetched.

Why Carvajal was dropped

Speaking to the media in a recent interview (h/t SPORT), Luis de la Fuente was asked about his decision to drop certain captains of the national team including Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal and former Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata.

Not going to the World Cup. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“Just as I backed them for many years, they also have to understand that when I change my opinion, I do it with the same honesty and integrity,” he began.

“I’m going to miss them personally and professionally because they have been two captains who left an exceptional legacy,” he added.

Elaborating on his confidence in the chosen squad, the manager said: “These are the 26 best players for me.”

On selecting no Real Madrid players

Luis de la Fuente also then dived into his decision of not picking any Real Madrid players in his 26-member team.

De la Fuente has not named a single Real Madrid player in the World Cup squad. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

“For me, the biggest team is the Spanish national team, and I do not look at where players come from or their origin.”

He then stressed the fact that he prioritises form and performance over club and fame.

“They are Spanish players proud to represent their country, and I only look at sporting aspects.”

Finally, de la Fuente distanced himself from being a ‘fan’ of either Barcelona or Real Madrid and stressed that the criteria of his selection were beyond superficial factors.

“I am the only person whose interests here are purely sporting, since I’m the one putting my job at risk. This is the national team of an entire country.”