UNL: Spain to miss Yamal, as Arsenal defender pulls out of England squad

Czechia head coach Santi Denia has expressed disappointment over the absence of Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal from Spain’s squad ahead of their UEFA Nations League encounter on Thursday.

Denia admitted fans would be disappointed not to see the Spanish youngster in action, noting that many supporters buy tickets specifically to watch the 19-year-old forward. 

Spain will also be without midfielder Rodri and Barcelona playmaker Dani Olmo, both sidelined by injury.

Despite the absence of the key players, Denia insists that Spain will remain a formidable opponent under head coach Luis de la Fuente. 

He believes the European champions have enough quality and squad depth to maintain their playing philosophy regardless of the players available.

Spain currently lead their Nations League group with 12 points, while Czechia are struggling at the bottom after suffering four consecutive defeats without earning a point. 

Denia, however, remains confident that his team can produce an upset if they deliver a perfect performance.

Denia acknowledged the difficulty of the challenge, particularly with Czechia also missing striker Patrik Schick, who stepped away from international football after the World Cup.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth defender James Hill has received his first senior England call-up after being added to Thomas Tuchel’s squad as cover for injured Arsenal defender Ezri Konsa. 

The 24-year-old center-back joins the squad ahead of Thursday’s UEFA Nations League clash against Croatia at Wembley, after Konsa withdrew with a knee injury.

Konsa sustained the injury during Arsenal’s Champions League victory over Slavia Prague but completed the full 90 minutes in Saturday’s win against Hull. 

He is expected to return to full training this week ahead of England’s trip to Madrid to face Spain on Sunday. 

Hill’s inclusion follows the earlier withdrawal of Marc Guehi, who Newcastle defender Dan Burn replaced after suffering a hip injury.

Hill has been ever-present for Bournemouth this season, featuring in every minute of their Premier League campaign and every match in their inaugural Europa League appearance.