La Roja make a late change to their World Cup squad after an untimely injury.
Spain have called up Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde for the World Cup after an injury to Jose Gaya.
Gaya hoped to challenge veteran Barcelona star Jordi Alba for a place on the left-hand side of Spain’s defence line. However, an ankle sprain on Wednesday shattered his World Cup dreams.
The Valencia midfielder had a chance to make his comeback during the knock-out stage. But Enrique opted against taking a risk and called up Balde as his replacement.
Balde has represented Spain’s U21 side, but he is uncapped at the senior level.
The youngster made his Barcelona debut in a Champions League defeat against Bayern last year. Since then, he has developed himself into a starter under Xavi Hernandez.
Barcelona are planning on Balde as Alba’s long-term replacement. His late call-up for the World Cup could see him make his Spain debut in Qatar.
Speaking about his chances of playing in the World Cup, Balde said earlier this month: “To play the World Cup in Qatar would be a dream.”
Having landed a spot in the World Cup, Balde will start his international career at the highest level.
Spain will kick off their campaign with a match against Costa Rica before taking on Japan and Germany in their next group-stage games.
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