Luis de la Fuente overruled Barcelona star with Spain call-up decision

On Friday, Luis de la Fuente revealed his Spain squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Denmark and Switzerland. One notable absentee is Pau Cubarsi, who has been in excellent form for Barcelona in recent weeks.

Cubarsi would have been a candidate to start for La Roja in their two matches this month, and according to MD, he was going to be called up until he suffered a deep cut to his face during Barcelona’s match against Crvena Zvedza on Wednesday. It’s also reported that de la Fuente spoke to the 17-year-old about his condition in the days after the incident.

Speaking to the media, de la Fuente explained the decision to omit Cubarsi.

“He has a significant wound – it is very deep and required nine stitches. We always take care of our players. Pau must have several days until his wound heals. You don’t have to take risks.”

Both Barcelona and the Spanish Football Federation are keen to protect Cubarsi, who has been a mainstay for the Catalan club so far this season. After Sunday’s match against Real Sociedad, he will be allowed to rest for two weeks, which will be much needed.