Premier League star says he “wouldn’t feel comfortable” playing for England
England is set to kick off their World Cup journey this Wednesday against Croatia. While many players would be proud to represent the Three Lions, one Premier League star has said he wouldn’t feel comfortable playing for England.
The team’s preparation hasn’t been perfect, especially after their training gear was stolen. But despite this setback, the England squad, led by Thomas Tuchel, is determined to win the nation’s second World Cup since their first in 1966.
Tuchel picked a squad he believes can win, leaving out some big names like Phil Foden and Cole Palmer. However, one Premier League player chose not to represent England at all and is playing for another country instead.
David Raya spoke openly before Spain’s match against Cape Verde about why he decided not to play for England, although he was eligible. The Arsenal keeper said, “It never crossed my mind. I feel Spanish, and I always wanted to represent Spain. I wouldn’t feel comfortable representing England. I would feel like an outsider.”
Raya isn’t expected to be Spain’s first-choice keeper—that spot belongs to Unai Simon, who helped Spain win the 2024 European Championship.
Even though Raya moved to England at 16 and has played his whole senior career there, once he made his debut for Spain in March 2022, he couldn’t switch to play for England anymore.
Now, Raya is eager to support Spain in any way he can as they aim to win their second World Cup title this year, whether he’s on the field or cheering from the sidelines.