Fran García Replaces Grimaldo in Spain Squad
Alejandro Grimaldo has left the Spain camp due to discomfort in his left thigh, with Luis de la Fuente turning to the Real Betis full-back to complete the UEFA Nations League window.
Spain has suffered another setback during an international window marked by physical problems. Alejandro Grimaldo will leave the squad after experiencing discomfort in his left thigh during the warm-up before the 4-1 victory over Croatia at the Sánchez-Pizjuán.
The Atlético de Madrid full-back underwent medical tests and, although the issue is not considered serious, the Royal Spanish Football Federation decided not to take any risks. Grimaldo therefore leaves the camp without having played any minutes during this international window.
His absence once again leaves Marc Cucurella as the main option at left-back, but Luis de la Fuente quickly responded by calling up Fran García for the two remaining matches awaiting the world champions.
Fran García Returns to Spain After Three Years
The call-up represents a new opportunity for Fran García, who is playing his first season with Real Betis after leaving Real Madrid during the summer. The 27-year-old full-back has established himself as a starter under Manuel Pellegrini, and his strong start to the campaign has opened the door to Spain once again.
His last appearance for the national team dates back to October 2023. Fran García made his senior debut against Scotland and, just three days later, started in the 1-0 victory over Norway. He has not played another match for Spain since then.
He will now have the opportunity to earn his third senior cap. Spain will host the Czech Republic on Saturday, October 3, in Oviedo before traveling to face Croatia again on Tuesday, October 6, in Split. Luis de la Fuente's team enters those matches with six points following victories over England and Croatia.
Injuries Force De la Fuente to Make Changes
Grimaldo's departure is not the first change Luis de la Fuente has been forced to make during this international window. Pedro Porro withdrew before the start of the camp and was replaced by Iván Fresneda, while Eric García later left the squad due to discomfort in his left knee. His place was taken by Robin Le Normand.
With Fran García joining the squad, the coach has another emergency reinforcement for the final stretch of a demanding four-match window. For the Real Betis defender, it also marks his return to the national team three years after his only two senior appearances.
Fran García Gets Another Opportunity With Spain
- Alejandro Grimaldo has left the Spain camp due to discomfort in his left thigh as a precaution.
- Fran García returns to the national team after three years and will take the place of the Atlético de Madrid full-back.
- Spain still has matches against the Czech Republic and Croatia remaining in this UEFA Nations League window.
