Spanish internationals Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal will play no part in the UEFA Nations League encounter against the Czech Republic, according to an official statement released by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) on Monday.
Barcelona prodigy Yamal picked up right knee discomfort following his club's hard-fought 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Sunday. Meanwhile, Real Sociedad attacker Oyarzabal is currently recovering from the concluding stages of a bout of influenza, the governing body clarified.
Why are both players missing the fixture?
While they will sit out the trip to face the Czechs, the RFEF confirmed that both athletes are anticipated to report to the national team training camp in the coming days. The federation noted that their inclusion is aimed at ensuring their availability for the high-profile clash against England at the Metropolitano Stadium on Sunday.
What is Spain's current tournament standing?
La Roja, who hold the status of world champions, have already secured their progression to the knockout phase of the Nations League quarter-finals. Luis de la Fuente's side are scheduled to travel for Thursday's fixture against the Czech Republic prior to welcoming England, led by Thomas Tuchel, to Madrid.
This temporary setback tests the squad depth of the European powerhouse as they manage player fitness during a demanding domestic and international calendar.