Nacho Monreal is the main
surprise in Julen Lopetegui's Spain squad for the World Cup with Alvaro Morata,
Sergi Roberto, Marcos Alonso and Vitolo all missing out.
Morata misses out despite having
been an important player so far during the Lopetegui era but the way he has
struggled for form this season at Chelsea has led to his omission with Diego
Costa, Iago Aspas and Rodrigo, the three forwards who will go to Russia.
In defence, Azpilicueta is picked
along with Monreal while Betis' Marc Bartra has not been chosen and their
versatility appears to have been crucial in the decision as is the case with
Thiago in midfield.
Lopetegui's squad
Goalkeepers: De Gea, Reina and
Kepa.
Defenders: Carvajal, Odriozola,
Piqué, Sergio Ramos, Nacho, Azpilicueta, Jordi Alba and Monreal.
Midfielders: Busquets, Saúl,
Koke, Thiago, Iniesta, Silva.
Forwards: Isco, Asensio, Lucas
Vázquez, Iago Aspas, Rodrigo and Diego Costa.