Spain Squad for World Cup Qualifiers: Defender Huijsen ruled out with muscle injury; Laporte called up as a replacement

Spain defender Dean Huijsen has been ruled out of the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Bulgaria due to a muscle injury, with Aymeric Laporte called up as his replacement, the Spanish FA (RFEF) said on Wednesday.

“Huijsen, 20, arrived at the national team training camp on Monday evening but did not train on Tuesday after reporting symptoms of muscle fatigue,” the RFEF said in a statement.

«Medical examinations carried out on Wednesday confirmed the muscle injury, of which Real Madrid have been informed, which has prompted his withdrawal from the squad. We wish him a speedy recovery.»

Spain face Georgia in Elche on Saturday before hosting Bulgaria in Valladolid on Tuesday as they look to secure their place in the 2026 World Cup.

The absence of youngster Huijsen, who has impressed under Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso after a £50m move in Bournemouth’s close season, is a setback for Spain manager Luis de la Fuente.

However, Athletic Bilbao Defender Laporte, 31, brings vital experience, having been a key player in Spain’s European Championship-winning team last year.

Spain currently top Group E of European qualifying with six points from two games, with Georgia and Turkey trailing by three points.

Published on October 8, 2025