Madrid (AFP)

French defender Aymeric Laporte, just naturalized Spanish, was summoned Monday to play the Euro with Spain from June 11 to July 11, in a list without Sergio Ramos, whose absence is a huge surprise.

Called three times for the French team but without ever playing a match, Laporte (Manchester City) has therefore officially chosen Spain.

Coach Luis Enrique has also decided to dispense with Ramos (35), the captain of La Roja, in his list of 24 players who will compete in the competition.

"It was a difficult decision to make, but Ramos has not played and has hardly trained since January," said Luis Enrique at a press conference on Monday at midday.

"I called him yesterday (Sunday), it was hard, difficult. I feel bad, because he is very professional and he helps the selection a lot. And he will still be able to help him in the future. have to look for the best for the group, "said the manager.

Ramos has been out with injury for most of the end of the season with Real Madrid: he only played five games for his side in 2021.

He was injured in his right thigh, left calf, contracted Covid-19, and most recently he was injured in his left hamstrings.

No Real Madrid player will play the Euro with Spain, an unprecedented fact for La Roja.

Spain's list for the Euro (June 11 - July 11):

Goalkeepers: David De Gea, Unai Simon, Robert Sanchez

Defenders: José Gaya, Jordi Alba, Pau Torres, Aymeric Laporte, Eric García, Diego Llorente, César Azpilicueta, Marcos Llorente

Midfielders: Sergio Busquets, Rodri, Thiago Alcantara, Pedri, Koke, Fabian Ruiz

Forwards: Gerard Moreno, Alvaro Morata, Dani Olmo, Mikel Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres, Adama Traoré, Pablo Sarabia

Coach: Luis Enrique

© 2021 AFP