” He is not coming ? – Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu was shocked to learn Liverpool star Thiago Alcantara did not make Spain’s 26-man World Cup squad

Takehiro Tomiyasu was visibly shocked to learn that Liverpool’s Thiago Alcantara was not in Spain’s World Cup squad.

The Arsenal defender, who represents Japan in the competition in Qatar, is set to face Luis Enrique’s side in their final Group E match next week after opening matches against Costa Rica and Germany.

With an embarrassment of riches at his disposal, Enrique was able to exclude some big names from his Spanish squad, including David de Gea, Kepa Arrizabalaga and midfielder Thiago.

The Liverpool midfielder has endured a frustrating campaign with injuries so far, only returning to action since early October.

Many would have assumed the 31-year-old would be involved if the match went up, including Arsenal defender Tomiyasu who was left baffled to learn of his absence.

” He is not coming ? a visibly confused Tomiyasu told AS. “Sorry, I didn’t know that! »

Asked to clarify why experienced players like Thiago are not at the World Cup, Spain coach Luis Enrique said: “The message is a thank you. I know it’s a disappointment. They deserved to be here, but only 26 can be in the team.

“If it was a normal World Cup, we would integrate physical needs into training, but mid-season we are not going to work on a player’s physical level.

“I’m not going to go into players who aren’t on the list. I thank all those who helped us to get here, but now the most important are the 26 called. We have a lot of young people, but also veterans. There is a good mix. »