As the global football fireworks begin on June 14, different countries have released their final 23-man squad for the world’s cup in Russia.
Of the countries that have released their final list for the mundial, some football stars been k-legged in the final list due to poor form and managerial issues.
Most of these players participated in the last edition in Brazil and also the European championships hosted in France two years ago.
Here are the nine players that will miss the World Cup in Russia.
1. David Luiz (Brazil)
When coach Tite named his 23-man team for the showpiece, it came as a surprise to many as the name of the Chelsea star was omitted on the list.
Though the former Paris Saint Germain center-back has struggled all through the season with injury but Luiz has also had issues with Antonio Conte.
2. Joe Hart (England)
The England number one had showed signs of dwindling form since Pep Guardiola’s arrival at Manchester City two seasons ago.
The Three Lions exit at the Euro 2016 championships was also blamed on the West Ham goalkeeper and Gareth Southgate feels he was not in his best shape for the World Cup.
3. Jack Wilshere (England)
The enterprising Arsenal midfielder has not been having it easy as his on and off spell on the sidelines could have cost him his place.
Southgate believes the likes of Dele Ali, Raheem Sterling, Eric Dier, Jordan Henderson, Jese Lingard can not be brushed aside for the out of colour Wilshere.
4. Alexander Lacazette (France)
The star-studded France national side is one of the favourites for the competition and Coach Didier Dechamps is taking no chances with his team’s selection.
That is why the likes of in-form Alexander Lacazette will not be attending the tournament with his French teammates.
5. Anthony Martial (France)
Despite being 22, the Manchester United striker will be licking his wounds for not making it with Les Bleu to Russia because of not earning a place in Jose Mourinho’s first team.
Martial has only scored 10 goals in all competitions for the Red Devils this season compared to Olivier Giroud’s who scored 19 for both Arsenal and Chelsea.
6. Andre Gomes (Portugal)
The 24-year-old Portuguese midfielder was a promising player when Barcelona signed him from Valencia two seasons ago but he has had limited playing time.
The Portugal international failed to cement a starting place under departed Luis Enrique and present coach Enersto Valverde.
7. Nelson Semendo (Portugal)
The right-back position in the Portuguese national team has been keenly contested in the last two years and Semedo will have to face the harsh reality of not being called.
Semedo’s impressive performance at the Confederations Cup for the Selecao caught the eye of Valverde but has failed to displace Sergi Roberto in Barca’s right full back position.
8. Fabio Coentrao (Portugal)
The Real Madrid defender who is currently on loan with Sporting Lisbon made it clear that he will not be fit enough to represent his country.
9. Luis Nani (Portugal)
For the first time in several tournaments, Nani has been excluded from Portugal’s squad that will play at the World Cup.
Nani has been inconsistent with his Turkish side Fenerbache and Fernando Santos believes he is not worthy to be in his squad.
Naija.ng
