Huijsen recalled to Spain squad after World Cup snub as Cucurella holds left-back spot

Dean Huijsen has been recalled to Luis de la Fuente’s Spain squad for the forthcoming FIFA international window, ending the Real Madrid defender’s absence that began when he was omitted from the World Cup. Marc Cucurella has also been named in the squad, retaining his status as Spain’s undisputed first-choice left back.

Huijsen’s return is the headline selection. His exclusion from the World Cup squad had raised questions about his standing with De la Fuente, but a strong start to the 2026-27 club season appears to have resolved them. The centre-back comes back into a defensive unit that also includes Pau Cubarsí, who has already cemented himself as a senior option at the heart of Spain’s back line.

Cucurella’s inclusion is more routine. He remains the automatic starter on Spain’s left flank and, according to the report, sits clearly ahead of every other candidate for that position in De la Fuente’s thinking — a standing that has not been affected by a relatively quiet start to life at Real Madrid since his move to the club.

The two defenders will now prepare for a demanding four-match schedule. Spain face England first, before back-to-back fixtures against Croatia and a final game against the Czech Republic. The window arrives in the wake of Spain’s appearance in the 2026 World Cup final against France, meaning performances across all four matches will be scrutinised closely as De la Fuente assesses his options going forward.

For Huijsen in particular, the recall represents an opportunity to re-establish himself as a fixture in the squad rather than a fringe option. How he performs alongside Cubarsí during the window could go a long way towards defining his role in Spain’s plans for the seasons ahead.