José Gayà will miss the World Cup in Qatar. After an ankle injury in training, the left-back said goodbye to the Spanish national team, as announced on Friday. According to a statement, the 27-year-old sustained an injury on Wednesday, after which coach Luis Enrique, after consulting the medical staff, decided to replace the Valencia player. Alejandro Balde from FC Barcelona takes his place.
Dream burst for Nkunku, Werner & Co: These players miss the World Cup injured
The list of confirmed failures is getting longer..
In fact, Gayà was only slightly injured. The association’s website mentions a “slight lateral sprain of his right ankle”. But coach Enrique claims that all 26 nominated players are in the best physical condition. The most valuable full-back in the Spaniard team by far, with a market value of 40 million euros, was then given courage. He deserved an appearance at the tournament. His early departure was “the worst news” that overtook the “Selección” before the World Cup. The 18-time national player has already started his return journey to Spain.
Successor Balde, who trained at Barça and only turned professional there this year, has not yet played a senior international match for Spain. However, the 19-year-old has established himself as a regular for the Catalans this season, playing not only on the left but also on the right side of defence. With his nomination, Barça replaces FC Bayern as the team with the most World Cup releases. Sadio Mané from Munich recently had to cancel his participation in the World Cup.
Top 20: Clubs with the most releases for the 2022 World Cup
Liverpool FC | 7 abandoned players | Total value: €345 million
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