David Raya is likely to start for Spain against Turkey on Tuesday due to Unai Simon’s minor injury, according to a report.
Marca Sevilla report that David Raya could be in line to play for Spain against Turkey in their final World Cup qualifier on Tuesday night, as Unai Simon is currently dealing with a small ankle problem.
The same outlet suggests the lineup alteration is “nothing serious”, adding that “the Arsenal goalkeeper performed very well when Unai had surgery after the Euros and was absent until March”.
But it’s set to be a significant game for Spain, with the team on the verge of mathematically securing their spot at the 2026 World Cup.
Technically, Spain could still miss out on automatic qualification, as they’re only three points clear of Tuesday’s opponents Turkey with a game to go.
But the goal difference gap of 14 means Turkey would have to win 7-0 or better to leapfrog their opponents at the last moment.
If Raya can add to his large collection of clean sheets this season by keeping one against Turkey, Spain will definitely progress to the World Cup. But even a defeat would probably be enough to go through.
Raya’s last appearance for Spain was in November 2024, when he appeared in a Nations League win over Denmark.
Unai Simon has played all of the World Cup qualifiers so far, but it looks like the Arsenal goalkeeper might get a chance in the game that seals Spain’s qualification.