Llull Out with Muscle Injury as Spain Field Faces World Cup Qualifiers
Spanish guard Sergio Llull, the long-time ace of the national team, left the Spanish concentration this Thursday after experiencing muscle discomfort during training. The incident came amid preparations for the 2023 World Cup, with August wrapping up and Spain counting the days to their first European outing in the Georgia-hosted event. Llull’s departure from the squad occurred following the team’s recent match against Iceland, where the issue first surfaced and prompted medical checks that morning.
According to the Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB), Llull underwent a series of medical evaluations to determine the extent of the injury and assess his eligibility for the World Cup roster. The tests, completed on Thursday morning, concluded that a muscle strain was present, though officials described it as not serious. Despite the reassuring diagnosis, the injury effectively rules him out of the trip to Tbilisi, Georgia, scheduled for August 30. Spain is set to play Bulgaria the following day as part of the preliminary schedule.
Llull’s absence will be felt by a squad that has relied on his leadership and playmaking for years. At 34, he has already celebrated three World Cup titles with Spain in past cycles (Poland 2009, Lithuania 2011, France 2015). His experience and skill have often been pivotal in clutch moments, and his withdrawal from this event marks a notable turn in the team’s preparatory phase for the world stage. (Attribution: Baloncesto España / FEB)
Officials announced the update via official communications, noting that Llull left the training camp due to the injury and would focus on rehabilitation to reintegrate with the squad as soon as possible. The situation adds a layer of challenge for a national program that historically depends on a balanced blend of seasoned executives and rising talents. The team’s coaching staff will now recalibrate plans for the Georgia trip, ensuring younger guards can absorb more responsibility while maintaining the squad’s strategic approach. (Attribution: FEB press release)
For fans and analysts, the development underscores the fragility of the lead-up to major tournaments and highlights the necessity of depth within a national roster. In Llull’s stead, other veterans and emerging guards are expected to fill the void, showing resilience and adaptability as the team eyes a successful campaign on the world stage. The balance of playmaking, spacing, and defensive intensity will be tested in the upcoming days as Spain finalizes its World Cup roster and game-by-game strategy. (Attribution: Baloncesto ESP)