Fermín López injury opens World Cup door for Villarreal’s Alberto Moleiro | OneFootball

Fermín López’s foot fracture has opened a path into Spain’s World Cup squad for Villarreal’s Alberto Moleiro, who is in the 55-man preliminary list. According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, he has yet to make his senior debut and, until recently, looked a long shot.

On Sunday, the Barcelona midfielder produced a strong first half against Betis. He was replaced at half-time by Alejandro Balde, initially viewed as routine management.

Medical tests then confirmed a fracture in the fifth metatarsal of his right foot. He had hoped to avoid surgery, but that will not be possible. He is expected to be out for two to three months, ruling him out of the tournament, which starts on 11 June.

His absence could aid Castellón-born Pablo Fornals, a regular in recent squads, and Moleiro. The Villarreal player has been on the national radar and is on the broad prelist, though he has yet to receive a definitive call. Moleiro offers creativity between the lines, can play inside or from the left, and brings receiving, turning, acceleration and the final pass.

Luis de la Fuente will name the 26 next Monday. The injury has left an unexpected vacancy and Villarreal have reason to pay attention. Moleiro still hopes to sneak into the World Cup.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo