Raul Asencio was unable to make his Spain debut during the UEFA Nations League Quarter-Final First-stage from Thursday against the Netherlands, because he was omitted from the 23-man competition day team by head coach Luis de la Fuente. It turned out to be a missed opportunity for the 21-year-old, because the first half injury from Pau Cubarsi had offered a chance.
According to Marca, De La Fuente explained the decision to leave Asencio away when she spoke before Sunday's return leg.
“This is a team of great players and we manage it like every team. Three must be omitted. It was Raúl's turn and he understood it perfectly. Everyone lives it naturally and with comrades, something fundamental to me and you know it all.
“Nobody is essential. Here is the most important thing that the team is. The fundamental thing is deployed and solidarity. The team and the players know it and that state of dedication and solidarity is what prevails in this group of players. Normally I make small mistakes because they are very good. Sport without suffering.
It was Dean Huijsen who preferred Asencio, and he was the one who made his senior debut after Cubarsi's injury. De La Fuente also spoke to the young person during his press conference before the competition.
“Certainly, for many, the appearance of Huijsen is a discovery. He has been with us for a while, with Santi Denia in the U-21s. Many of those you say they are surprises are not. We know very well the raw material we have in this country. Spanish football is a weeding source of talent.”
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