Spain's best XI not going to Russia
After Julen Lopetegui released his 23-man squad for the World Cup in June, we take a look at the best XI players who won't be going to Russia this summer.
GK: Sergio Asenjo (Villarreal)
The shotstopper was overlooked in favour of David De Gea, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Pepe Reina.
RB: Sergi Roberto (Barcelona)
Lopetegeui opted to take 22-year-old Alvaro Odriozola in place of the full-back.
CB: Marc Bartra (Real Betis)
Despite finishing the season strongly after his January move to Spain, there was no room for Bartra in the final list.
CB: Inigo Martinez (Athletic Bilbao)
With Gerard Pique and Sergio Ramos bossing the centre-back positions, there is no wonder that Martinez misses out.
LB: Marcos Alonso (Chelsea)
The biggest surprise from Lopetegui's squad. Despite making the Premier League Team of the Year (2017-18) with eight goals and four assists, Arsenal's Nacho Monreal was preferred.
CM: Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich)
He's a staple in that Munich midfield but Martinez faced too strong competition from Sergio Busquets and Saul.
CM: Juan Mata (Manchester United)
Just like Martinez, Mata is the victim of playing a position where Spain has such depth.
CM: Vitolo (Atletico Madrid)
One of the greatest absentees from the squad, Vitolo did not make enough of an impact with Atletico to break into the 23.
CM: Dani Parejo (Valencia)
The 'Che' skipper is another midfielder set to watch the World Cup from home.
ST: Aritz Aduriz (Athletic Bilbao)
Despite netting 20 goals this season and finishing as the Europa League's top scorer, Aduriz misses out in place of Iago Aspas, Rodrigo and Diego Costa.
ST: Alvaro Morata (Chelsea)
The other big absentee from Lopetegui's list, Morata has been overlooked because of an inconsistent season with Chelsea.