The bomb dropped on Thursday night. On Radio MARCA, Felipe del Campo revealed that Asencio and Iñigo will not be on De la Fuente's list for the Final Four. The news has surprised many, especially due to the exclusion of the young Real Madrid center-back.
Both players had been strongly considered to make the list. But ultimately, the coach has taken a different path. The official list will be announced on Monday, May 26, right after the LaLiga season ends.
Iñigo Martínez is out by technical decision
The absence of Iñigo Martínez, although striking, hasn't caused much commotion. The FC Barcelona defender has been important in several matches, but the competition is fierce. Dani Vivian, who is available again, has gained an advantage in the coach's plans.
Luis de la Fuente prefers a young block with more projection. At 33 years old, Iñigo is left out of a key competition. It is possible that this is the end of his time with the national team, although no one confirms it officially.
Asencio: The big casualty
Raúl Asencio's situation is more painful; at just 22 years old, he has been one of Real Madrid's revelations this season. Carlo Ancelotti trusted him when injuries hit the white defense, and the Canary Islander replied with reliability and personality. It seemed that his effort would earn him a spot on the national team.
But it hasn't been the case; the competition is tough. Cubarsí, Laporte, Huijsen, and Vivian seem to have convinced De la Fuente more. Even so, Felipe del Campo left an important detail: "Asencio must stay in Madrid until the list is announced, in case any unforeseen events arise."
Everything will be known on Monday
The draft will be made official on Monday, the 26th, once the league season is closed. That day it will be confirmed if there is any last-minute surprise or if, indeed, Asencio and Iñigo are completely ruled out. Spain will play against France on June 5 in the semifinals, a match that will demand the highest level.
For now, Raúl Asencio must wait. His future with the national team is not closed, but this blow has been hard. He was ready to take another step in his career, and he will have to keep waiting.