Unai Simón
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Keeps clean sheet Monday
Simon had one save and secured a clean sheet in Monday's 0-0 draw versus Cape Verde.
Analysis: Simon got the starting nod for Spain's World Cup opener, beating out both David Raya and Joan Garcia who are coming off excellent club seasons. Simon did not have to do much to earn a clean sheet, only making one easy save on a header late in the match. It's hard to judge Simon and Spain's defensive performance given they had the ball in the opposing half for nearly the entire match, though that's the way the European Champions want to play. Next up is a tilt with Saudi Arabia Sunday in Atlanta, another favorable matchup where Spain is expected to dominate possession once again.
Should start between posts
Simon has been named in Spain's World Cup squad and is expected to retain his status as the first-choice goalkeeper despite facing the strongest competition of his international career from David Raya and Joan Garcia.
Analysis: Simon ended the season with Athletic Club having made 38 appearances and recording six clean sheets, playing a key role in manager De la Fuente's system with his ability to play out from the back and his reliability at international level over the past several years. The keeper has been Spain's undisputed number one through the Euro 2024 triumph and coach De la Fuente has remained loyal to him despite David Raya's exceptional season at Arsenal and Joan Garcia's breakthrough campaign at Barcelona, valuing his experience and familiarity with the national team's style. Simon heads into the World Cup knowing the goalkeeper debate will be one of the most discussed topics surrounding the squad, and he will need to perform at his very best to silence the clamor for one of his rivals to take his place.
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