Manchester United hero Patrice Evra has said that he is "shocked" that goalkeeper David de Gea will miss the 2022 FIFA World Cup after being snubbed by Spain coach Luis Enrique.

De Gea has 45 caps for Spain’s national team but will not add to that tally in Qatar after failing to make Enrique’s 55-man provisional squad for the tournament.

Reports in Spain claimed that Enrique had named five goalkeepers to his shortlist, which includes Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga and Brighton’s Robert Sanchez, as he overlooked De Gea.

Reacting to the development, Evra told Betfair: “I’m in shock at Luis Enrique’s decision to leave David De Gea out of his World Cup squad."

“I had to double-check to see if it was real! I will be honest; I think this is an issue off the field. Enrique has a strong personality.

“OK, De Gea has conceded some goals with Spain, but to take him out of the squad, an experienced player like that?"

“I have been a player; I know how it works, and things happen behind the scenes." I am sure he and Enrique have had a discussion, and maybe De Gea did not accept what Enrique wanted for him. Who knows if it is Enrique’s or De Gea’s decision? "We will never know.”

Spain is in Group E alongside Costa Rica, Germany, and Japan.