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Spanish national football team coach Inaki Saez has confirmed the lineup for the friendly matches against Italy.
Compared to the lineup for the friendly matches against Denmark, there are two unexpected names on the list. For the first time, in-form Barcelona winger Luis Garcia has been called up to the national team. Garcia, who represented Madrid's Atletico last season, was selected for the friendly matches against Ecuador, but later got injured and couldn't play. This season, he has scored 6 goals in 27 matches, with the latest goal coming in Barcelona's 3-0 victory against Malaga last weekend.
Another familiar face returning to the team after a two and a half break is Deportivo defender Manuel Pablo. With 12 appearances for the national team, this 28-year-old player suffered a leg injury in a match against Celta in September 2001 and was not called up to the national team for a long time. Born in the Canary Islands, the player stated his desire to earn the right to represent the team in this year's European Championship in Portugal.
Also called up to the team, unable to play against Denmark due to injuries, are Xavi and Raul Bravo.
Not called up to the team are Gabri, Luque, Guti, and Salva. Coach Saez also does not include Jose Reyes, who is in good form for Arsenal, in his plans.
Players called up for the friendly matches against Italy:
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
