Spain Coach Stands With Ceuta Amidst Migration Crisis

Spain's national football coach, Luis de la Fuente, has chosen Ceuta, a Spanish exclave on the North African coast, as the location to announce his latest Nations League squad. This decision serves as a significant gesture of support for the territory, which has recently been at the center of a major migration crisis.

In late July, a substantial influx of over 70,000 individuals crossed the border from Morocco into Ceuta. This event led to tragic loss of life, with over 100 deaths reported amidst the ensuing chaos. While the majority of migrants were subsequently returned, thousands remain in the city.

Coach De la Fuente, releasing his first squad since Spain's World Cup victory, made a video appearance in Ceuta. Though he did not directly address the border events, his declaration, "This is Ceuta, this is Spain," resonated with a developing national sentiment of solidarity for the territory.

The Spanish squad for the Nations League will feature two stars on their shirts, commemorating their second world title, when they begin their campaign against England at Wembley Stadium on September 26th. Further matches include home games against Croatia and the Czech Republic, followed by a return fixture against Croatia.

Key changes in the squad include Inter Milan goalkeeper Josep Martínez replacing the injured Joan García. Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen is called up following Marcos Llorente's international retirement, while Fermín López takes over from Gavi. Espanyol forward Roberto Fernández earns his debut call-up, replacing Borja Iglesias.