Spain coach Luis de la Fuente on Monday named his 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, backing young stars and Euro 2024 champions while leaving out every Real Madrid player from the final selection.
The squad is headlined by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who was included despite recent injury concerns. De la Fuente also expressed confidence that Nico Williams and Mikel Merino would recover in time for Spain’s opening group-stage clash against Cape Verde on June 15.
Spain, who exited the 2022 World Cup in the Round of 16 before bouncing back to win UEFA Euro 2024, are once again considered among the favourites heading into the tournament.
No place for Real Madrid players
One of the most striking aspects of the squad announcement was the absence of any Real Madrid player in the final 26-man list. Veteran defender Dani Carvajal and highly rated youngster Dean Huijsen both missed out, while Atlético Madrid defender Robin Le Normand was also omitted.
De la Fuente insisted club affiliations played no role in his selections, saying the squad was chosen purely on tactical needs and balance.
The coach also confirmed that Barcelona midfielder Fermín López was unavailable after suffering a broken foot.
Barcelona core dominates squad
The squad heavily reflects Spain’s growing reliance on a youthful Barcelona-led core. Alongside Yamal, players such as Pedri, Gavi, Dani Olmo and Pau Cubarsí have all been included.
Midfield responsibilities will also rest on experienced names like Rodri and Fabián Ruiz, while the attack features a mix of pace and creativity through Nico Williams, Ferran Torres and Mikel Oyarzabal.
Spain’s goalkeeping unit includes Unai Simón, David Raya and Joan García.
Spain prepare for World Cup campaign
Before beginning their World Cup journey, Spain will play warm-up matches against Iraq and Peru. The team opens its Group H campaign against Cape Verde before facing Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
De la Fuente said the medical staff remained optimistic about the availability of key players carrying minor fitness concerns and praised the transition to a younger generation after the departure of senior leaders.
The coach paid tribute to Carvajal and former captain Álvaro Morata, saying both players had left behind an important leadership legacy for the next generation of Spanish footballers.
