Spain Names Its Provisional 30-Man Squad For World Cup 2014

Spain has named its provisional 30-man squad for World Cup 2014.

Tottenham striker Roberto Soldado and Real Madrid starlet Isco are the most glaring omissions as the World and European champions announced their squad today.

Fernando Torres, who has been dropped from the last few Spain squads, was included. His spot appears to have come at the expense of Soldado whose poor club form led to being dropped.

Also of note, David  de Gea — the outstanding Manchester United goalkeeper — will likely be participating in his first major tournament. Iker Casillas is likely to remain Spain’s top goalkeeper for this World Cup.

Ander Iturraspe, who has stood out for Athletico Bilbao, has yet to earn a senior Spanish cap but has been included in the squad.

Spain’s provisional 30-man World Cup squad is as follows:

Goalkeepers Iker Casillas, David de Gea, Pepe Reina

Defenders Sergio Ramos, Gerard Piqué, Raúl Albiol, Juanfran, Jordi Alba, César Azpilicueta, Daniel Carvajal, Alberto Moreno

Midfielders Xavi, Javi Martínez, Xabi Alonso, Andrés Iniesta, Koke, Sergio Busquets, Santi Cazorla, Ander Iturraspe, Cesc Fábregas, Thiago Alcântara, Juan Mata, David Silva, Pedro, Jesús Navas

Forwards Diego Costa, David Villa, Fernando Torres, Álvaro Negredo, Fernando Llorente