Luis de la Fuente has unveiled Spain’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, making headlines for excluding any Real Madrid players for the first time in history. This significant decision reflects the broader shifts within the team and the performances throughout the season.
Historic Exclusion of Real Madrid Players
This year’s selection marks a notable first: Spain will compete at the World Cup without representatives from Real Madrid. The Spanish Football Federation confirmed the omission of Dean Huijsen, a defender who was previously thought to have a chance to be included.
Key Players and Notable Debuts
Among the noteworthy inclusions is Lamine Yamal from Barcelona. At just 18 years old, he is set to make his World Cup debut, although he may miss the opening match against Cape Verde due to a hamstring injury. His teammate, Gavi, who recently returned from a knee injury, is also included.
- Lamine Yamal: Expected to debut, but doubtful for the first matches due to injury.
- Gavi: Included after recovering from a seven-month injury absence.
- Mikel Merino: Selected after returning from a foot injury.
Defensive Changes in the Squad
The defense reflects a significant shift from previous selections. Only Aymeric Laporte, a member of the Euro 2024-winning squad, returns. Players like Marc Pubill and Eric Garcia have been selected based on their performance this season.
Squad Composition and Fitness Concerns
De la Fuente’s strategy emphasizes maintaining team harmony and leveraging players with proven records under his management. However, some players carry fitness concerns into the tournament.
- Nico Williams: Despite a poor season marked by injuries, he has been named to the squad.
- Goalkeepers: Joan Garcia, from Barcelona, joins Unai Simon and David Raya as the selected keepers.
Group Stage Draw
Spain has been placed in Group with Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. This tournament will be Spain’s 17th World Cup appearance, showcasing the country’s rich football legacy.
Looking Ahead for Real Madrid Players
The absence of Real Madrid players not only impacts individual players like Huijsen but also reflects the overall struggles of the club this season. The lack of trophies and internal challenges contributed to this outcome.
As the upcoming tournament unfolds, the focus will remain on how Spain adapts without players from its most decorated club. Discussions within Real Madrid may lead to reconsidering their strategies for incorporating local talent in future squad selections.
Full Squad for the 2026 World Cup
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Unai Simon, David Raya (Arsenal), Joan Garcia (Barcelona) |
| Defenders | Marc Cucurella (Chelsea), Alex Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen), Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Club), Marc Pubill (Atletico Madrid), Eric Garcia (Barcelona), Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid), Pedro Porro (Tottenham) |
| Midfielders | Pedri (Barcelona), Fabian Ruiz (PSG), Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal), Gavi (Barcelona), Rodri (Manchester City), Alex Baena (Atletico Madrid), Mikel Merino (Arsenal) |
| Forwards | Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Dani Olmo (Barcelona), Nico Williams (Athletic Club), Yeremy Pino (Crystal Palace), Ferran Torres (Barcelona), Borja Iglesias (Celta Vigo), Victor Munoz (Osasuna), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) |
