Luis Enrique talks Gavi, Ansu Fati, Alonso, Torres following Spain NT squad selection

Luis Enrique has released his Spanish national team squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League encounters, featuring six Barcelona players.

Although Ansu Fati does not feature in the squad, Enrique has opted to pick youngsters Gavi and Pedri, along with ageing stars such as Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.

Explaining his decision to exclude Fati, Enrique said, “We brought him in previously to get into the dynamics of the group. So that he has contact with the national team. He did not play, now he does in his club, but he has only played one official game as a starter. It says something.”

Meanwhile, the Spanish coach hailed Gavi for his rapid progression, stating: “I see Gavi very well. An 18-year-old boy in the way he did in Munich.

“I can imagine the training sessions. Wonderful. Let the Culés enjoy him, but we will be demanding. There are two games prior to the World Cup and with the goal of reaching the semis,” he added.

Other than Gavi, Ferran Torres has been included in the team, along with new Barcelona signing Marcos Alonso.

The decision to include Torres and Alba has raised a few eyebrows, especially given the sheer amount of alternatives at the disposal of coach Luis Enrique.

However, the Spanish head coach once again explained his decision, adding: “Clubs play many games. I trust a lot in what they offer. I must not lose confidence because they haven’t played for their clubs in a short space of time. They will play again.”

“We will hardly take three left-backs. I prefer to take more forwards because we will have to attack. I prefer to put a full-back forward if necessary,” Enrique added when asked about the exclusion of Marcos Alonso.

The season’s first international break will see Spain start their journey with a home game against Switzerland on 25 Sept before they lock horns with Portugal away from home, later in the month.

Spain are currently sitting at the top of Group 2 of the UEFA Nations League, despite only securing two wins in four matches so far.