Imga heads to U-17 World Cup

Imga and Chichoro called up for Spain's U-17 World Cup in Qatar (19 Nov–13 Dec); Imga could miss six Athletic matches if Spain reaches the latter stages.

Christian Imga has been called up to Spain's squad for the U-17 World Cup in Qatar, running from 19 November to 13 December. The winger, who has already made his Athletic Bilbao debut, is one of two Athletic players in coach David Cubillo's squad; goalkeeper Darlington Chichoro, who joined from Manchester United this summer, is also included.

Spain's group-stage opponents are China (20 November), Fiji (23 November) and Morocco (26 November). The squad will gather in Madrid on 9 November before travelling to Doha on 16 November. If Spain progresses deep into the tournament, Imga could miss up to six Athletic matches: five league games (against Espanyol, Málaga, Real Madrid, Rayo Vallecano and Deportivo) and a Copa del Rey second-round tie. Athletic's reserve side will play five Primera RFEF matches during the same period.