It’s because the start of our Copa del Rey campaign always begins with games against lower divisions. Players like Cristiano, Xabi and Sergio can get some deserved rest, while our fringe players get to play the whole 90.  

The four injuries and the competition requirement both factor into who Mourinho called up. He didn’t mention it in the press conference, but Iker is being rested as well. Back in May it was reported that Adán agreed to stay because Mou promised that he’d give him starts in the Copa del Rey.