According to Cope, César Azpilicueta and Eric García have been left out of the Spain squad for tonight’s match against Portugal in the UEFA Nations League.
Luis Enrique has removed the two defenders from his squad. Dani Carvajal and Diego Llorente will come into the squad in place of Azpilicueta and García.
Carvajal and Llorente are two of Spain’s five players with one yellow card, but there is no longer a risk of suspension because the cards expire tonight. For the World Cup, there would only be a risk in the case of a sending off for violent conduct.
As a result of the changes, Nico Williams will wear the number 2 shirt and Borja Iglesias will wear the number 3 shirt. Both players made their debuts for La Roja in their 2-1 defeat to Switzerland on Saturday.
In June’s 1-1 draw with Portugal at the Benito Villamarín, Luis Enrique opted for Diego Llorente and Pau Torres as the central defensive pairing, perhaps a sign to suggest that the Asturian coach believes they are the best possible duo to stop Cristiano Ronaldo and co.
Spain need to beat Portugal in Braga on Tuesday night if they are to advance to the Nations League finals.
UEFA Nations League PREVIEW | Portugal vs Spain
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