Levante HubLevante will be without Pablo Cuñat in the upcoming clash against Deportivo de La Coruña because the goalkeeper has been called up by the Spain U21 national team. The absence, confirmed by the Efesé coach, leaves the club without its standout keeper this season.
Why won’t Cuñat play against Depor?
The keeper, on loan from Levante to Efesé, was summoned by Santi Denia to join the Spanish U21 side for the international fixtures of matchday 32. The call‑up means Cuñat will miss the Riazor game, and Toni Fuidias will guard the cartagenero net. The decision comes just after Rafa Núñez was also called up, already marking two international absences.
Which other international duties are hitting Levante?
Beyond Cuñat and Núñez, Sipcic (Montenegro) and Pepín Machín (Equatorial Guinea) are expected to leave the squad for their respective national teams. In total, up to five players could be missing for international duty, not counting the injuries to Jorge Moreno and Gastón Valles that already limit the side.
| Player | National team | Match missed |
|---|---|---|
| Pablo Cuñat | Spain U21 | Deportivo de La Coruña |
| Rafa Núñez | Dominican Republic | Deportivo de La Coruña |
| Sipcic | Montenegro | Deportivo de La Coruña |
| Pepín Machín | Equatorial Guinea | Deportivo de La Coruña |
How does Cuñat’s absence affect Levante’s performance?
Cuñat has been, according to several analysts, the best player in the albinegra squad this campaign, providing safety between the posts. His lack forces the coach to rely on the experience of Toni Fuidias, who has alternated between the reserve and first team. The quality gap between the two keepers could translate into more goals conceded and potentially a weaker league position.
What’s next for Cuñat and the other call‑ups?
The Spanish internationals will play two friendlies: Friday the 21st in Lorca against the Czech Republic and the following Tuesday in Germany against a local side. Cuñat will return to Levante after fulfilling his duty, although the fixture congestion and possible reintegration of injured players may complicate his comeback. Meanwhile, Levante will look to shore up its defence to offset the temporary loss of the goalkeeper.
What does this mean for Levante’s next match?
With Cuñat unavailable, Levante must tweak its defensive approach and trust the solidity of its back line. The coach has already highlighted the need to stay focused and avoid mistakes that could cost points. The missing starter adds pressure on the rest of the squad, which must respond with greater collective effort to keep fighting for LaLiga survival.
