Liverpool forward Victor Munoz could make his full debut for Spain against Czechia on Saturday after Nico Williams was forced to withdraw from the world champions' squad through injury.
Munoz was part of the Spain side that won the World Cup this summer, but injury prevented him from making an appearance during the tournament. The 23-year-old belatedly made his competitive debut for his country last week, coming off the bench in their Nations League win over Croatia.
He had been left out of the matchday squad for their opening game in the expanded September/October international break against England. However, the winger, who scored on his debut for his country against Serbia in March, could now be in line for a first start for Spain following Williams' withdrawal.
Official statement confirms Williams withdrawal
The Athletic Bilbao forward had started against England and came off the bench to score against Croatia. But an official statement released by the Royal Spanish Football Federation has confirmed he will play no further part for his country during the international break.
The statement read: "Nico Williams has withdrawn from the Spanish national team camp. The Athletic Club international reported discomfort in his left thigh following the match against Croatia in Seville. His progress was closely monitored during the rest day, and due to the persistence of the discomfort, he did not participate in Thursday's training session."
"Following the medical tests carried out today by the Medical Services of the Spanish Federation, it has been decided to remove him from the current training camp in order to continue with the recovery process. The Athletic Club medical staff have been kept informed at all times about the player's progress, and he will continue his treatment and recovery under the supervision of his club."
Munoz ready for Czechia clash
Munoz was one of eight forwards named in Luis de la Fuente's initial 26-man Spain squad for the current international break. Prior to Williams' withdrawal, he faced the media at a press conference on Thursday where it was put to him he could be in line to start in their weekend clash with Czechia.
"I don't know what intentions the coach has, but everyone is training well, eager to play, and it will be a complicated match (against Czechia)," he said. "But whoever plays will surely do very well. Playing with them gives you so many advantages; you have so many players nearby to combine with, and I think that enhances my football and helps me."
"I felt very good and was left wanting more (against Croatia), looking forward to the next match, coming to train today. I'm excited and waiting for the next game. I try to work every day, contribute my grain of sand, try to improve my game. With that work and consistency - which I think characterises me - I will always try to take a step forward, always ready in whatever role helps the team."
"Being able to play any match with this national team, whether starting or coming off the bench, is incredible. It's always incredible to debut in this competition, the Nations League, with Spain. Representing your country in any match or competition is amazing. It's true that all those difficult moments you went through come back to your mind - like at the World Cup when you didn't feel right. But now I'm in a good moment, both here and at Liverpool, eager for the next match to arrive and to hopefully get more minutes."
