Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has announced his squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League quarter-final clash against the Netherlands. Among the notable inclusions is Real Madrid’s young center-back Raúl Asencio, who receives his first-ever call-up to the national team.

Meanwhile, seasoned midfielder Isco, a five-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid, has been left out. The squad features a mix of experienced campaigners and fresh talent as Spain prepares to defend their Nations League title.

Raúl Asencio’s Rapid Rise

Real Madrid’s 22-year-old defender Raúl Asencio has been one of the revelations of the season. Initially stepping in for the injured Éder Militão, he has cemented his place in the squad with commanding performances. His standout display in the Champions League round-of-16 tie against Atlético Madrid, where he played every minute, played a crucial role in Madrid’s qualification.

Coach De la Fuente acknowledged Asencio’s exceptional development, stating: “He is having a great season and he is an example of a player who can skip ahead in the process.”

Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti also lauded the defender’s selection: “He has been playing really well for this, we are celebrating, and hopefully this will be the beginning of many more call-ups for him.”

Notable Omissions

While Asencio’s inclusion marks a fresh chapter for the national team, several key players have been omitted. Isco, who has revived his career at Real Betis, was not selected despite his impressive form. Similarly, Marcos Llorente, Alejandro Balde, Pau Torres, and Marco Asensio failed to make the squad.

SEVILLE, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 16: Isco Alarcon of Real Betis looks on during the LaLiga match between Real Betis Balompie and Real Sociedad at Estadio Benito Villamarin on February 16, 2025 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s young midfielder Gavi remains unavailable due to injury, with Marc Casadó earning a call-up instead.

Defensive Adjustments

Spain’s backline sees some adjustments, with Iñigo Martínez returning to the squad for the first time in two and a half years. The Barcelona defender recently extended his contract with the club until 2026.

With Aymeric Laporte and Dani Vivian unavailable due to injuries, De la Fuente has opted for a defensive core featuring Asencio, Pedro Porro, Óscar Mingueza, Robin Le Normand, Pau Cubarsí, and Marc Cucurella.

Goalkeeping Shake-Up

In goal, Unai Simón makes his return following injury, replacing Robert Sánchez, who has not featured for Spain since their UEFA Euro 2024 triumph in Berlin. Simón will compete for the starting spot with Arsenal’s David Raya and Real Sociedad’s Álex Remiro.

Attack and Midfield Composition

Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is included, adding creativity to Spain’s attacking options. He is joined by Yeremy Pino, Nico Williams, Dani Olmo, Ayoze Pérez, Ferran Torres, Bryan Zaragoza, and Álvaro Morata.

FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football – LaLiga – FC Barcelona v Sevilla – Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, Barcelona, Spain – October 20, 2024 FC Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal celebrates after Robert Lewandowski scores their third goal REUTERS/Albert Gea/File Photo

In midfield, Martín Zubimendi, Marc Casadó, Fabián Ruiz, Mikel Merino, Álex Baena, and Pedri provide depth and versatility.

Spain’s Nations League Title Defense

Spain, the reigning Nations League champions, will face the Netherlands in Rotterdam on March 20 before the return leg in Valencia on March 23. With a balanced squad combining youthful energy and experienced heads, De la Fuente’s men aim to continue their dominance in European football.

Spain’s Full Squad for Nations League Quarter-Finals

Goalkeepers

Unai Simón (Athletic Club)
David Raya (Arsenal)
Álex Remiro (Real Sociedad)

Defenders

Pedro Porro (Tottenham)
Óscar Mingueza (Celta Vigo)
Robin Le Normand (Atlético Madrid)
Pau Cubarsí (Barcelona)
Iñigo Martínez (Barcelona)
Raúl Asencio (Real Madrid)
Marc Cucurella (Chelsea)
Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen)

Midfielders

Martín Zubimendi (Real Sociedad)
Marc Casadó (Barcelona)
Fabián Ruiz (Paris Saint-Germain)
Mikel Merino (Arsenal)
Álex Baena (Villarreal)
Pedri (Barcelona)

Forwards

Yeremy Pino (Villarreal)
Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Nico Williams (Athletic Club)
Dani Olmo (Barcelona)
Ayoze Pérez (Villarreal)
Ferran Torres (Barcelona)
Bryan Zaragoza (Osasuna)
Álvaro Morata (Galatasaray)

Spain’s journey in the Nations League continues with a high-stakes encounter against the Netherlands, where new faces like Asencio will have the opportunity to shine on the international stage.

FAQs

Who is the surprise inclusion in Spain’s Nations League squad?

Real Madrid’s 22-year-old defender Raúl Asencio has earned his first-ever senior call-up after impressing in the Champions League and La Liga.

Why was Isco left out of Spain’s squad?

Despite his resurgence at Real Betis, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente did not include Isco in the squad for the Nations League quarter-finals.

Which key players are missing from Spain’s squad due to injury?

Defenders Aymeric Laporte and Dani Vivian are unavailable due to injuries, while Gavi also remains sidelined.

When and where will Spain play the Nations League quarter-finals?

Spain faces the Netherlands on March 20 in Rotterdam, with the return leg scheduled in Valencia on March 23.

Who are Spain’s goalkeepers for the Nations League quarter-finals?

Unai Simón (Athletic Club), David Raya (Arsenal), and Álex Remiro (Real Sociedad) have been selected as Spain’s shot-stoppers.