Real Madrid Star Sent Home From Spain Squad As Statement Released

A Real Madrid star has been sent home early from the Spain squad before the end of the international break, it has been announced.

Spain thrashed Georgia 4-0 on Saturday to effectively secure automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Luis de la Fuente's side are three points ahead of second-placed Turkey, who they play in their final group match on Tuesday, but would need to lose by eight goals to be overhauled on goal difference.

De La Fuente selected 23 players in his matchday squad against Georgia, having initially called up 26 before Lamine Yamal pulled out following groin surgery.

Now, the squad has been reduced to 24 players, with Real Madrid centre-back Dean Huijsen being sent home from the squad.

The former Bournemouth defender was suffering from a muscle issue and played no part in the Georgia victory.

A statement posted by the Spanish FA (RFEF) reads: "Dean Huijsen has been dropped from the squad for Spain's final 2026 World Cup qualifier against Turkey due to muscle discomfort that already prevented him from playing against Georgia, and which his club has been kept informed about at all times.

"As usual, and prioritizing the health and well-being of the player at all times, the Royal Spanish Football Federation has made the decision to release the player."

Huijsen is not the only top centre-back to have been released early during the international window.

Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi arrived at the England camp having suffered bone bruising to his foot during Palace's Conference League clash against AZ Alkmaar.

He was not involved in the squad for the Three Lions' 2-0 win over Serbia on Thursday, before the decision was taken for him to return to Selhurst Park for further treatment and rehabilitation before the 2-0 victory over Albania on Sunday.