Spain Injury News for UEFA Nations League: Inigo Martinez and Marc Casado Ruled Out of Spain’s National Team

Credit: X/@marcccasado and @FCBarcelona

The international break is upon us and this one brings the Nations League quarter-finals. However, before they could even begin, Spain have been hit by injuries. They will begin preparations for their UEFA Nations League quarter-final against the Netherlands without Barcelona midfielder duo Inigo Martinez and Marc Casado. 

The Spanish Football Federation confirmed on Monday that both players have been ruled out of this month’s fixtures with knee injuries. Both of them sustained this injury during Barcelona’s 4-2 win on Sunday over Atletico Madrid in La Liga. Casado suffered a knock to his right knee in the second half of the match.

Whereas, Martinez also sustained a knee problem during the game but decided to finish the game nonetheless. National team coach Luis de la Fuente has called up Bayer Leverkusen’s Aleix García to come in for Casado. He’s called up Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen, Spain’s U-21 youngster to replace Martinez.

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Concerns Over Casado’s Recovery Timeline

Reportedly, Martinez’s injury is considered not that serious. After a look at his injury, Martinez may recover and return within a couple of weeks. However, Casado’s injury seems a bit more serious and the situation seems quite uncertain. Reportedly, the midfielder sustained a strong blow to his knee.

It is a little early to understand the severity of the injury as further medical evaluations will determine his recovery timeline as well. Martinez was recalled to the Spain squad after a prolonged absence, so it was certainly a significant moment for him. However, that return seems far away now. 

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He will have to keep up his incredible form to be called up again next time. The latest setback could even delay his hopes of securing a regular spot in De la Fuente’s plans. On the other hand, Casado was eager to start in the national setup as well. Especially to play and defend as the defending Nations League champions.

This term, in the quarter-finals, La Roja will face a tough test against the Netherlands. The first leg will take place on Thursday in the Netherlands while the second leg will be held in Spain on Sunday. Despite these injury blows, the coach will hope that replacements Garcia and Huijsen can fill the void aptly.