Vicente Del Bosque is set to call-up Iker Casillas on August 28. It will be his first call up since his departure from Real Madrid. The Spanish captain is set to earn his 163rd international cap when Spain face group leaders Slovakia as part of the Euro 2016 qualifiers.
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has announced that it intends to pay tribute to the goalkeeper who has won a World Cup and two European Championships with the national team. The Federation also plans to include Torres, Villa and Xavi in this multi-tribute but this will depend on the availability of each player with their respective club at present. Xavi will be commencing his pre-season activity with Qatari side, Al Saad in Austria whilst Torres and Villa will be involved in their domestic campaigns in LaLiga and the MLS respectively.
The presence of Casillas however is the most important. He is still regarded as the key national goalkeeper despite his move to Porto and is anticipated to play in the Euro 20016 tournament in France should Spain qualify.
Del Bosque is not a particular fan of tributes in official competitive game and even less when the game is against group leaders, Slovakia. Spain lost away in Zilina and three points at home are imperative to ensuring Spain’s qualifying for Euro 2016. Del Bosque’s protests seem to suggest that the tribute may take place on September 6th, one day after the qualifying match.
Oviedo is deemed to be an ideal venue for this tribute. The Spanish national team are highly considered in the area and Casillas fondly loved by the local Asturian fans. The local Oviedo City Council are also keen to use the event to promote the city. No doubt an emotional occasion awaits Casillas.