Long view of selector Luis Enrique Martinez after the public reveal lists 26 players chosen for the World Cup in Qatar, reflecting on a tapestry of personal names and moments. The focus moves from Ansu Fati to Mikel Oyarzabal and touches on the challenges that shaped the squad, with memories that linger and lessons learned along the way.
Ansu Fati
There was a lingering doubt until the final moment, yet trust in Ansu remained. The coach knows him well and believed in him early, even as football’s undeniable force called him back. Ansu faced a difficult journey both personally and on the pitch, and the process of healing continues to influence the plan for the squad. The door remains open for his influence and growth.
Mikel Oyarzabal
With Mikel, the remembrance is clear: he was a regular contributor who deserved more time to recover. The path to full fitness was not easily carved out, and the memory of his consistent presence underscores the balance between selection timing and sustained readiness.
Pedri
The decision to include Pedri marked a turning point that resonated across Europe. He played every match at a high tempo, drawing attention from rising talents who watched and learned. The group blends youth with seasoned players, creating a dynamic mix that excites the team and its supporters.
bouquets
The aim is to persuade Sergio Busquets to extend his World Cup journey. Like Rafa Nadal in his prime, Busquets stands among the greatest in history, yet the team weighs fit for the role and contribution on the field above any single accolade. In the envisioned system, Busquets’s presence remains a strategic asset rather than a mere credential. If the match context aligns, possession is dominated and the team presses forward with confidence. On the world stage, the assessment of value goes beyond reputation alone.
Marco Asensio
The crucial moment for Asensio came before a call he had not trained with his national teammates, a risk that was weighed against his proven performance elsewhere. His reply showed a defender’s discipline and an attacker’s instinct. Now he receives more minutes, driven by a renewed commitment. A complete player who can operate on the wing or as a central striker, his movement and pace add versatility. The rise is visible and welcome.
Yeremy Pino
Yeremy’s involvement with the national team has grown steadily. He develops as a player who can stretch the field and create inside-out options. He embodies the open style of play while still delivering the quality and goals needed to be a constant threat. The choice becomes clearer with each performance.
Hugo Guillamon
Gaining a place as a defensive leader is a consideration that fits well with Valencia’s approach under Gattuso. The transition from club to national duties has shown him as a credible option at center-back, where his awareness and reach can contribute on both flanks. The potential there is substantial and worth exploring.
Koke
There is no doubt about Koke’s reliability. When the moment calls, his experience and minutes with the club translate into a valuable contribution at the national level. He can anchor the middle, reinforce the defense, and help the squad maintain balance amid the different tactical demands. The assessment emphasizes his consistency and readiness.
Borja Iglesias
The decision about Borja Iglesias focuses on the broader picture: the combination of players coming into the pool creates depth that can be leveraged in multiple ways. The medical staff and coaches weigh the costs and benefits, aiming to strengthen the attack without overloading any single option. The result is a more robust offensive roster that can adapt to varied scenarios.
Pique
Near the end of the season, Pique’s leadership and sacrifice for his club were evident. He performed at a high level even when facing personal challenges, showing a competitive engine that powered the team forward. Rather than default to a first choice, the overarching goal was to empower every player who helped reach the World Cup, building a roster with seasoned personnel and fresh energy. The experience of veterans remains a core asset in the selection decisions.