Spain call up Arsenal defender Cristhian Mosquera for World Cup friendlies
Arsenal defender Cristhian Mosquera has received his first senior international call-up for Spain ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
Head coach Luis de la Fuente named the 21-year-old in a 27-man squad for home friendlies against Serbia and Egypt.
The Alicante-born centre-back is joined in the national setup by club team-mates David Raya and Martin Zubimendi.
Ending Colombia speculation
This maiden senior inclusion represents a significant progression for a player who has already represented La Roja from Under-15 to Under-23 levels.
It also seemingly resolves recent speculation regarding a potential switch of international allegiance.
Reports previously suggested the versatile defender could declare for Colombia, his parents’ homeland, to secure a place at the summer finals in North America.
Making an impact in north London
The highly-rated prospect arrived at the Premier League leaders from Valencia last summer for an initial fee of £13m.
While fierce competition has prevented him from becoming an undisputed regular, he has impressed across 25 appearances in all competitions.
The former La Liga talent has also had to carefully overcome a recent ankle injury to establish his role within the title-chasing squad.
Domestic decisions and fresh faces
He recently replaced an injured Jurrien Timber during a league victory over Everton, though Ben White was preferred for the subsequent Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen.
Manager Mikel Arteta must now evaluate his defensive options for Sunday’s Carabao Cup final showdown against Manchester City at Wembley.
Meanwhile, the Spanish national squad features several other new faces preparing for the international window.
De la Fuente has also drafted in Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia, Real Sociedad forward Ander Barrenetxea and Osasuna winger Victor Munoz.
