Nacho Monreal was called up to the Spain squad for their game against Albania, replacing Jordi Alba in the squad.
Monreal has been in impressive form for Arsenal for some time now, but his international appearances have been limited to 17 caps in his entire career. Now 30, Monreal is perhaps showing the most consistency of his career, and it is only right that that was rewarded with a call up to the national team.
Not only was Monreal called up to the squad, he was actually selected to start against Albania, and in an unfamiliar position. Nacho was deployed as a left centre back in a back three and helped his team keep a clean sheet and win three points in an important qualifier. He also assisted the second Spain goal after a simple pass to Nolito was followed by a great individual run and finish.
Monreal has played as a centre back for Arsenal before and always looked pretty solid there. He still has a bit of pace for his age, but his awareness and composure make him an excellent option in the heart of defence. He also has a very impressive leap for someone of his size, allowing him to make up for his lack of natural height.
With Per Mertesacker and Gabriel Paulista’s futures in question beyond this season, would you take Monreal as a back up central defender as he moves into his 30’s, allowing a younger left back to come into the squad? I can see that eventually being the plan with Nacho providing cover on the left and in the middle – his experience and calm head are important attributes we cannot afford to lose.
Congrats on the cap Nacho, it’s nice to see you doing well!