Coach Luis De La Fuente has announced that in this FIFA window he will not call up two BARÇA players to the national team for a special reason. Luis De La Fuente said: “I know they are in good form at Barça, but I cannot call them up to the national team…” – Luis De La Fuente’s words surprised everyone when they learned the truth behind this decision.

Las Rozas, October 8, 2025 – The football community in Spain and beyond was taken by surprise this morning when national team coach Luis de la Fuente made a bold and unexpected announcement. Ahead of Spain’s World Cup qualifying matches against Georgia and Bulgaria, De la Fuente revealed that he would not be calling up two of Barcelona’s brightest young stars – Gavi and Fermín López – despite their outstanding form.

In a press conference filled with curiosity and speculation, the coach’s words sent immediate shockwaves through the media. “I know they are in good form at Barça,” he said calmly, “but I cannot call them up to the national team.” The statement raised eyebrows across the room, leaving fans and journalists desperate for answers. Considering Gavi and Fermín’s immense contribution to Hansi Flick’s Barça in recent weeks, many assumed something controversial must be behind the decision.

Both Gavi, just 20 years old, and Fermín López, 22, have been instrumental in Barcelona’s resurgence under Flick. Gavi’s energy, tenacity, and leadership have made him indispensable, while Fermín’s creativity and tactical awareness have earned him widespread praise. Between them, they have been key to crucial victories over Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, adding goals, assists, and determination in midfield battles. Their absence from the national team list was, therefore, nothing short of shocking.

Speculation immediately erupted across Spanish sports media, with some pundits suggesting that the decision might be related to recent internal tensions between Real Madrid and Barcelona players in the national setup. Only a few days ago, Madrid’s Dani Carvajal had made a controversial statement, questioning the maturity of Barça’s young midfielders. Fans feared that politics and rivalry might be creeping back into La Roja, threatening the unity that once defined Spain’s golden generation.

However, De la Fuente quickly cleared the air, offering a completely different — and far more surprising — explanation. “It is not about discipline, nor performance,” he clarified. “Gavi and Fermín are being sent on a special development program organized by the Federation. They have been selected for an intensive, confidential training stage at the Aspire Academy in Qatar from October 10 to 20. This program focuses on advanced tactical awareness, injury prevention, and leadership development. It is a long-term investment in Spain’s football future.”

The revelation instantly changed the tone of the conversation. What initially appeared as a punishment or sidelining now looked like a visionary move aimed at shaping the next generation of Spanish leaders. De la Fuente further explained, “These boys are the future of our national team. We want them to be ready — not just for the next game, but for the next decade. Spain will need players like Gavi and Fermín to lead us through the 2026 World Cup and beyond.”

Sports analysts and former players have since applauded the initiative. A journalist from Marca described it as “a decision similar to sending Xavi and Iniesta for advanced training two decades ago.” The Spanish Football Federation reportedly partnered with Qatar’s top training facilities to create a world-class environment where young talents can refine their skills both mentally and physically. The program also includes sessions with elite coaches, psychologists, and sports scientists.

At Barcelona, head coach Hansi Flick responded with full support for De la Fuente’s decision. “We completely understand and agree,” Flick said in an interview. “Both Gavi and Fermín are essential to Barça’s system, but if Spain wants to take their development even further, that can only benefit us all. They are the soul of our team, and this experience will make them even stronger — especially ahead of the upcoming Clásico.”

Meanwhile, Dani Carvajal, who was initially thought to have influenced the decision, privately apologized after learning the truth. According to reports, he sent a message to both players expressing admiration for their professionalism. “They’re absolute cracks,” he said, putting an end to the unnecessary tension between the Madrid and Barça camps. Even Pedri, their close friend and teammate, took to social media, posting: “Proud of my brothers. This is not a benching — it’s a blessing for Spain.”

Back in Catalonia, fans reacted with relief and pride. The Camp Nou faithful are reportedly planning to unveil a banner in support of Gavi and Fermín during their next home match against Sevilla. The gesture will symbolize unity between club and country — a refreshing sign in an era often marred by rivalry and division in Spanish football.

With Lamine Yamal still recovering from a groin injury and Pedri expected to wear the captain’s armband for La Roja during this international break, Spain’s future looks bright and balanced. The decision to rest and develop Gavi and Fermín, rather than overwork them, could prove crucial for both their careers and Spain’s national ambitions.

As the football world digests this unexpected twist, one thing is certain: Luis de la Fuente’s bold decision marks a new era in Spanish football management — one that prioritizes vision, development, and long-term excellence over short-term gains. Only time will tell how this gamble pays off, but for now, the message is clear: the future of La Roja is in good hands, and two young Barça stars are being prepared to lead it.