Luis de la Fuente explains why Barcelona midfielder was left out of Spain squad: ‘He knows he must keep working’

Luis de la Fuente explains why Barcelona midfielder was left out of Spain squad: ‘He knows he must keep working’ Gavi has been left out of Spain’s squad for the November internationals, with Luis de la Fuente pointing to the competition for places and his lack of game time under Hansi Flick rather than any lack of confidence in the Barcelona midfielder.  As a result, the 22-year-old will miss the UEFA Nations League matches against the Czech Republic and England after struggling to secure regular minutes under Hansi Flick. De la Fuente named his squad on November 6, with as many as five Barcelona players , namely Joan Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Pedri, Fermin Lopez, and Lamine Yamal, included in the list.  De la Fuente explains what Gavi must do to return The Spain coach acknowledged Gavi’s standing within the national team but stressed that selection must reflect the form and contribution of those currently available. “Gavi always deserves an exception, but there are many players who could be here and aren’t. Above all, out of respect for those who are here, who are the best. We love him dearly and value him highly. Gavi has missed out on the Spain squad for November friendlies. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) “He has to keep being himself. He knows he must keep working and developing to earn his place back here. “It’s by no means easy, because we demand a lot and all the players are of a very high standard, but everyone has to keep improving to make it into the national team,” he said, as per SPORT . The message is supportive, but the selection decision is unambiguous: Gavi must earn his place through his performances rather than rely on the reputation he has built with Spain. Limited Barcelona minutes have weakened his case Gavi’s lack of continuity at club level is a significant factor, as he has accumulated just 211 minutes across seven appearances this season, starting only twice.  That limited involvement has made it difficult for him to build the rhythm required to challenge established midfielders in the national team setup. Gavi has started just two games this season at Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) At Barcelona, the competition has also intensified following Rodri’s arrival at Barcelona last summer.  Flick now has a deeper group of options, including Pedri, Frenkie de Jong, Marc Bernal and Fermin, leaving fewer opportunities for Gavi to establish himself. Versatility alone will not secure his place Gavi’s ability to operate in different midfield roles and even out wide, for that matter, gives Flick tactical flexibility, but that advantage has little value for Spain.  De la Fuente’s comments, on that note, suggest that the midfielder is not being permanently pushed out of the national-team picture.  Rather, the coach has set expectations this time and has made clear that only regular development and stronger performances at Barcelona will result in a call-up.