Spain’s head coach Luis de la Fuente has clarified his rationale for excluding Tottenham Hotspur defender Pedro Porro from the provisional squad for Euro 2024. Despite Porro’s impressive season with Tottenham, which saw him score three goals and provide seven assists, he was not selected. Instead, experienced players like Jesus Navas and Dani Carvajal have been preferred.
Announcing his provisional 29-man squad on Monday, de la Fuente emphasized the contributions of 38-year-old Navas, who plays for Sevilla. Navas’ inclusion is not merely about his current form but also his leadership and experience. “Jesus Navas can contribute a lot to the team,” de la Fuente stated during his press conference. “He is one of the captains, an example to all, and part of our team’s history. He’s won a World Cup, a European Championship, and a Nations League.”
Why Navas Over Porro?
De la Fuente’s decision is rooted in more than just on-field performance. He highlighted Navas’ influence off the pitch, citing his ability to inspire teammates. “He transmits his experience and dedication to all of us,” de la Fuente explained. “In difficult times, he has always been up to the task. Navas never fails. Some footballers are born to compete for their clubs and especially in the national team. He transforms when he puts on the national team shirt.”
Porro’s exclusion, despite his stellar performance in the Premier League for Tottenham, underscores the complex considerations behind squad selection. It is not just about current form but also about team dynamics, leadership, and experience.
Criticism Over Other Selections
De la Fuente has also faced scrutiny for selecting Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella over Girona’s Miguel Gutierrez, who has had an outstanding season in La Liga. Defending his choices, de la Fuente said, “We believe that Cucurella and [Alejandro] Grimaldo have done the job very well and have earned their places. Within the scenarios we propose, they are the best for us.”
This assertion indicates that the coaching staff has a specific tactical plan in mind, and the selected players fit those plans better than their counterparts, even if the latter have shown excellent form.
Looking Ahead to Euro 2024
Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign kicks off with a challenging match against Croatia on June 15. They will also face Italy and Albania in Group B. De la Fuente’s decisions, particularly in selecting veterans like Navas and Cucurella over younger, in-form players, will be tested on this stage.
As Spain gears up for the tournament, the blend of seasoned campaigners and promising talents will be crucial. The team’s performance in the upcoming friendlies against Andorra and Northern Ireland will further refine the final squad selection.
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