Luis de la Fuente delays Real Madrid forward’s Spain debut after Czech Republic omission | OneFootball

Carlos Espi will have to wait for his senior Spain debut after Luis de la Fuente left the Real Madrid forward out of the squad for the Nations League meeting with the Czech Republic.

The 21-year-old arrived in Oviedo late last night after travelling from Ibiza, where he had been with Spain’s Under-21 team. 

His promotion to the senior squad came after a record-breaking performance at youth level, but it has not immediately resulted in a first appearance.

According to AS, Espi is not among the 23 players selected for Saturday’s match, meaning his senior debut has been pushed back.

Carlos Espi earns Spain call-up after record display

The Real Madrid summer signing was brought into De la Fuente’s squad as a replacement for Ferran Torres, who suffered an ankle sprain.

Carlos Espi will have to wait for his Spain debut. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images)

The timing of the call-up was significant, as Espi has emerged as one of the early-season sensations in Spain after making an impact with Real Madrid, while his Under-21 performance further strengthened his case for promotion.

There had been hopes that his form could lead to an immediate senior debut, but De la Fuente has instead decided to wait before giving the forward his first cap.

Croatia could provide Espi’s debut opportunity

Being left out against the Czech Republic does not mean Espi has been sent back to the Under-21s. 

In fact, the forward will remain with Spain for the rest of the international break, giving him another opportunity to convince De la Fuente.

Spain travel to Croatia next Tuesday, October 6, and that match could provide the next opening for the Real Madrid striker.

Carlos Espi has not been included for the Czech Republic clash. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images)

With another game still to come, Espi can continue training with the senior squad and prepare for what would be his first appearance at this level.

Real Madrid trio together with Spain

Espi is currently sharing the senior Spain camp with two other Real Madrid players, namely Dean Huijsen and Marc Cucurella.

That experience alone represents an important stage in the youngster’s rapid progression. 

Just days after starring for Spain’s Under-21s, he is now training alongside established senior internationals and waiting for his opportunity.