The player that Luis de la Fuente should have called up to win the Nations League 54k4n

Spain once again came close to glory in the Nations League, but fell to Portugal in the final after a penalty shootout that left a bitter taste. The team led by Luis de la Fuente failed to close the game in the regulation 120 minutes, and various sectors of the football environment agree that there was a significant absence in the squad: Marcos Llorente. The Atlético Madrid player, who had been having an outstanding season, was not included in the list, and his absence was particularly felt on the right flank.

Marcos Llorente, Spain's Major Absence 2j561f

Throughout the final phase of the tournament, that area of the field caused headaches for the national team. Neither Pedro Porro nor Óscar Mingueza provided the necessary security in defense or depth in attack. Their performances left much to be desired, and the mistakes made in that zone of the field allowed opponents to create clear chances, some of which ended up in the back of the net.

Llorente, with his physical capacity, speed, and versatility, seemed like the ideal candidate to strengthen that position. Accustomed to playing both as a full-back and wing-back or midfielder, his dynamism and defensive commitment would have provided a balance that was clearly lacking in crucial moments. Additionally, his experience in high-pressure matches with Atlético would have added a competitive edge to a Spain team that struggled too much in individual duels on that side of the pitch.

The defeat against Portugal has led to various interpretations, and among them, the debate on technical decisions stands out. The exclusion of a player like Marcos Llorente continues to spark controversy in the public opinion. The feeling is that his presence could have made the difference in such a closely contested tournament, especially in a final that was ultimately decided by details.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El jugador al que Luis de la Fuente debió convocar para ganar la Nations League