Fabian Ruiz to miss Spain’s Croatia clash after birth of first child

Spain midfielder Fabian Ruiz will miss Tuesday’s UEFA Nations League match against Croatia after leaving the national team’s camp following the birth of his first child.

Ruiz is not injured, but remained in Paris to spend the first days with his newborn, according to Spanish newspaper Marca. He was already absent from Spain’s match against the Czech Republic on Saturday.

Spain lead their group after winning their opening three matches, and manager Luis de la Fuente is targeting another victory to maintain their perfect record. A point against Croatia would be enough to secure Spain’s mathematical qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals.

Ruiz left the squad’s training camp in Oviedo before the Czech Republic fixture. His continued absence, alongside that of Ferran Torres, means de la Fuente will have 24 players available for the Croatia match.

The Spain manager will therefore need to leave only one player out of the matchday squad.