Carlos Espi called up by Spain after Ferran Torres leaves squad

Real Madrid youngster Carlos Espi has been promoted to Spain’s senior squad after Ferran Torres withdrew with a persistent left-ankle injury.

Torres had continued training in recent days but has now left the Spain camp to focus on his recovery. The forward’s club, Paris Saint-Germain, was consulted throughout the process, with the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) saying its medical staff had remained in regular contact with the French side.

“Due to the persistence of the symptoms, the decision was made to withdraw him from the squad to prioritise his recovery,” the RFEF said.

Espi’s first senior call-up comes after a remarkable performance for Spain Under-21s in their 13-0 victory over San Marino on Thursday.

The Real Madrid forward scored five times and set up two more goals in the emphatic win, earning recognition from Spain manager Luis de la Fuente.

The 13-0 result made a decisive impact on Espi’s prospects, with de la Fuente opting to bring him into the senior group following Torres’ departure.

Spain will host the Czech Republic in Oviedo on Saturday before travelling to play Croatia on October 6.