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Spain have included injured teenage star Lamine Yamal in their 2026 World Cup squad, with coach Luis de la Fuente backing the Barcelona winger to recover in time for the tournament.
Despite battling a hamstring injury that has kept him out since late April, Yamal retained his place in the squad after playing a decisive role in Spain’s Euro 2024 success.
De la Fuente said medical assessments from club teams gave the coaching crew confidence that key players nursing injuries would be fit for the opening stretch of the competition.
“We’re coordinating with the medical departments of all the clubs,” the Spain coach said.
“The information we have suggests the players will be available for the first game or, at worst, the second.”
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino also earned a place in the squad after returning from a foot fracture that sidelined him for months. He recently made his comeback appearance in Arsenal’s final Premier League outing against Crystal Palace.
One of the biggest surprises from Spain’s selection is the complete absence of Real Madrid players a first in the country’s World Cup history.
Veteran full-back Dani Carvajal was overlooked after an injury-troubled campaign, while defender Dean Huijsen also failed to make the final cut.
Instead, De la Fuente rewarded impressive domestic form, handing call-ups to Barcelona’s Eric Garcia and Atletico Madrid defender Marc Pubill.
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The Spain boss dismissed suggestions of club preference influencing his choices.
“I don’t judge players by the clubs they represent,” he said.
“They are national team players first. My responsibility is to select those best prepared to compete for Spain.”
Barcelona dominate the squad with eight representatives, including Pedri, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Joan Garcia and Yamal.
Gavi’s selection carried emotional weight after his long recovery from a serious knee injury. Yamal later shared a video showing his Barcelona teammate celebrating passionately during a gym session after hearing the news.
“That reaction reflects the spirit of this squad,” De la Fuente said.
“It shows what representing Spain means to these players, and that commitment matters enormously.”
Spain begin their World Cup journey on June 15 against Cape Verde before taking on Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in Group H. With injury concerns surrounding some of their biggest names, Spain are banking on talent, depth and timely recoveries in their chase for another world title.
