why is david raya not starting for spain

David Raya isn’t starting for Spain mainly because Luis de la Fuente has kept trusting Unai Simón as his first-choice keeper, even though Raya’s club form has been excellent. Recent reports also point to manager preference and loyalty to Simón being the key reason, rather than Raya doing anything wrong.

What’s driving it

• De la Fuente has generally stuck with Simón when both are available.

• Some analysis says the old argument that Simón is better with the ball at his feet has faded, but the coach has still leaned toward him anyway.

• Spain’s goalkeeper debate has also included Joan García, which adds another layer to the competition.

In plain terms

Raya looks like a strong option, but Spain’s setup has been more about the coach’s established pecking order than current club form. In other words, this is less “Raya is bad” and more “Simón is still the manager’s guy.”

Current picture

Unai Simón has been designated the starting goalkeeper in the reports from mid-June, while Raya remains in the squad and in the conversation.

If you want, I can also turn this into a short forum-style reply or a more polished social post.