Real Madrid Defender Huijsen Out for Spain Qualifier

Dean Huijsen, the 20-year-old Real Madrid defender, has been ruled out of Spain's 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Georgia on Saturday after experiencing muscle discomfort during a training session the previous day. The injury, described as a groin issue in some reports, marks the second consecutive international break that Huijsen has missed with La Roja, following a similar problem in October that sidelined him for qualifiers against Georgia and Bulgaria.

The Royal Spanish Football Federation confirmed Huijsen's withdrawal in an official statement, prioritizing his health and releasing him from the squad. He underwent tests Saturday morning to assess the injury's severity, with initial indications suggesting it is not serious but requires further evaluation, including scans. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente omitted the center-back from the matchday squad as a precaution, leaving his availability for Tuesday's decisive qualifier against Turkey uncertain. Spain leads Group E with four wins from four matches and needs a victory over Turkey to secure automatic qualification for the 2026 tournament, though a playoff spot is already assured.

Huijsen's absence adds to a growing...