Fifa World Cup 2014: Spain Confirm David De Gea Injury Blow

Spain have confirmed Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has suffered a muscle problem that could rule him out for the remainder of his side's World Cup group games.

The holders suffered a humiliating 5-1 defeat to Netherlands in their group opener on Friday leaving La Roja in desperate need of a victory against Chile on Wednesday to keep their hopes of qualifying for the knock out stages alive.

Real Madrid's Iker Casillas endured a woeful night in goal, gifting possession to Robin van Persie for his second, to fuel speculation that De Gea may be called in to replace the Spain skipper.

However, the 23-year-old United shot stopper may miss his opportunity to represent his country after the Spanish football federation confirmed his injury. "After undergoing tests, it was decided that David de Gea would not take part in the team's afternoon training session owing to muscle discomfort in the gluteal region.

"The Spanish national team's medical services will evaluate day-by-day the goalkeeper's recovery to determine his reincorporation into the group."

De Gea, who was named United's Players' Player of the Year after an impressive 2013/14 season, only made his international debut last month but his knock, which was originally reported as a hip injury on Sunday, could end his World Cup should Spain not fail to turn things around against Chile.

Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina is the other option to replace Casillas should Vicente del Bosque decide to drop the 33-year-old.

Spain take on Australia, who suffered a 2-1 defeat in their opening game against the Chileans, on 23 June in their final group game.