Veteran goalkeeper Iker Casillas is not in the Spain squad announced Friday by new coach Julen Lopetegui, though Chelsea striker Diego Costa has been brought back after missing Euro 2016.
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Lopetegui – who took over from Vicente del Bosque in July – had lunch earlier this week with Casillas and reportedly told the Porto veteran that his 16-year highly successful worldwide career was over.
“Iker is a reference point and an icon, but on this occasion we have decided that de Gea should be the first-choice keeper”. Iker will continue to be very close to us.
Casillas, 35, has won two European Championships and the World Cup over the course of his 167 senior appearances for his country.
Former Porto manager Julen Lopetegui replaced Vicente Del Bosque in July following Spain’s disappointing Euro 2016 campaign, in which they were knocked out by Italy in the round of 16.
Former Spain Under-21 and Under-19 coach Lopetegui also omitted Pedro and Cesc Fabregas from the squad for Spain’s friendly against Belgium on September 1 and their first World Cup qualifier against Liechtenstein four days later.
In addition, he also selected young Real Madrid sensation Marco Asensio and West Ham United goalkeeper Adrian, who could make his debut with the national team.
Spain take on Belgium in a friendly in Brussels on September 1, which is Lopetegui’s first game in charge, and four days later host Liechtenstein at home in Leon in their opening 2018 World Cup qualifier.
Spain’s injury victims are Andres Iniesta of Barcelona and Isco of Real Madrid.
Forwards: Manuel Agudo “Nolito” (Manchester City), David Silva (Manchester City), Paco Alcacer (Valencia), Alvaro Morata (Real Madrid), Diego Costa (Chelsea).
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Defenders: Marc Bartra (Borussia Dortmund), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Sergi Roberto (Barcelona), Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich).
