The ridiculous team Catalonia could field if they were allowed to compete in the World Cup
Spain have had a lot of success in the past decade or so, and much of the credit for that goes to players from the region of Catalonia.
Catalonia is based in the north west of Spain, where two La Liga football teams are based: FC Barcelona and RCD Espanyol.
Players from the region do actually represent the autonomous state from time to time.
They've played 24 times since 1997, with their last game coming in a 3-3 draw against Tunisia.
However, Catalonia is not affiliated with either FIFA or UEFA and is not allowed to participate in either the FIFA World Cup or the European Championship.
But what would their team look like if they were allowed to compete in the upcoming World Cup?
After seeing which players would be eligible to represent them, it must be said they would have had a very good chance of winning it all in Russia.
GK: Kiko Casilla
Although he now represents Real Madrid, he was actually born in Alcover. He has made one solitary appearance for Spain, which came against Germany in 2014.
LB: Jordi Alba
Catalonia would be able to call on one of the best left-backs in world football. Alba has made 60 appearances for Spain, and has featured on eight occasions for Catalonia.
CB: Gerard Pique
What a player to have in the heart of defence. Pique has been one of the best defenders in the world since signing for Barcelona in 2008, and is still near the peak of his powers.
CB: Marc Bartra
Bartra did not make the cut at Barcelona but he has still forged a successful career for himself. He is now at Betis after a spell in Germany with Dortmund.
RB: Hector Bellerin
Bellerin was initially named as a stand-by player for Spain's World Cup squad, but has since being called up after Dani Carvajal withdrew through injury.
CDM: Sergio Busquets
Catalonia's midfield would be anchored by Busquets, who continues to be one of the most underrated players in world football.
CM: Cesc Fabregas
Although no-where near as quick or agile as he used to be, Fabregas' technical ability in the middle of midfield will still be paramount for Catalonia.
CM: Sergej Milinkovic-Savic
This one is a surprise. Milinkovic-Savic represents Serbia, but he was actually born in Lleida, a city in the west of Catalonia. Has recently been linked with a big money move to Manchester United.
RW: Gerard Deulofeu
Deulofeu has not flourished as expected earlier on in his career, but remains a handful on his day.
LW: Keita Balde-Diao
Another surprise. Balde-Diao plays for Senegal, and made a name for himself at Lazio. But he came through the youth system at Barcelona after being born in Girona. He has made one appearance for Catalonia.
ST: Jonathan Soriano
Catalonia don't have much depth in attack, but Soriano provides a decent option. He has scored goals wherever he has been in his career, and has currently notched 26 goals from 28 games during his spell in China with Beijing Guoan.
MANAGER: PEP GUARDIOLA
Who else?
What a team this would be.
Where would this team finish if they were allowed to play in this summer's World Cup? Have your say by leaving a comment below.
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