Why is Sergio Ramos NOT playing for Spain at the 2022 World Cup?
SPAIN legend Sergio Ramos is not adding to his 180 international caps at the 2022 World Cup.
The most capped Spanish player in history was thought to be a shoe in for what would likely have been his last World Cup.
However, the PSG star will not be featuring for Luis Enrique’s side at any point during the tournament as they prepare to come up against Germany this week.
He joins the likes of Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea in missing out on the chance to represent his country.
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Why isn’t Sergio Ramos playing for Spain?
Enrique shocked many with his World Cup selection as De Gea, Thiago and Ramos were excluded from his plans for the tournament.
The 36-year-old would have been one of the most senior players in Qatar if he was selected, but Enrique made the bold decision to leave him at home.
While Enrique is yet to disclose the reason for Ramos’ exclusion, his injuries in recent years may have played a part despite playing 20 times so far this season.
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Furthermore, the competition for places could explain the exclusion as Pau Torres, Hugo Guillamon, Aymeric Laporte and Eric Garcia were all selected ahead of him.
Spanish outlet Sport state that the recovery of Laporte, who returned from injury earlier than expected, could have had an impact on Ramos’ exclusion while the good form of Guillamon at Valencia swayed the decision to leave Ramos at home.
Enrique is clearly building for the future, but the experience that Ramos could have offered his squad will no doubt be missed.