FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain Announces 26-Man Squad, Injured Lamine Yamal Still Included

Spain has officially unveiled its 26-member squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal retaining his place despite ongoing injury concerns.

The tournament is scheduled to begin on June 11 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, and Spain enters the competition as one of the strongest contenders after its successful UEFA Euro 2024 campaign.

Lamine Yamal Included Despite Fitness Concerns

Head coach Luis de la Fuente has largely retained the core group that helped Spain win the Euro 2024 title.

One of the biggest talking points surrounding the squad announcement is the inclusion of 18-year-old star winger Lamine Yamal, who currently plays for FC Barcelona.

Although Yamal has been struggling with injury concerns, Spain has decided to keep him in the squad due to his importance in the team’s attacking setup.

However, reports suggest the young forward could miss Spain’s opening World Cup group-stage match because of his fitness condition.

Spain Packed With Midfield and Attacking Talent

Spain’s squad once again highlights the country’s strong midfield depth and attacking creativity.

The midfield unit includes several established stars such as:

• Pedri
• Rodri
• Fabián Ruiz

These players are expected to play a crucial role in controlling possession and dictating Spain’s tempo during the tournament.

In attack, Spain will rely on:

• Nico Williams
• Dani Olmo
• Ferran Torres
• Lamine Yamal

to provide pace, creativity, and goal-scoring threat.

Fermín López Ruled Out After Surgery

Spain has also suffered an important setback ahead of the tournament.

Midfielder Fermín López has been ruled out of the World Cup after undergoing surgery following a foot fracture last week.

His absence is considered a blow to Spain’s midfield rotation plans, especially given his energetic playing style and versatility.

Spain to Play Two Friendlies Before World Cup

Before beginning their World Cup campaign, Spain will play two international friendly matches to finalize preparations.

The team is scheduled to face:

• Iraq national football team on June 4
• Peru national football team on June 8

These matches are expected to help the coaching staff assess player fitness and tactical combinations before the tournament begins.

Spain Drawn in Group H

Spain has been placed in Group H of the FIFA World Cup 2026 alongside:

• Cape Verde national football team
• Saudi Arabia national football team
• Uruguay national football team

Spain will begin its campaign against Cape Verde on June 14.

Football analysts believe Group H could become highly competitive, especially with Uruguay expected to provide a strong challenge during the group stage.

Full Spain Squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 Goalkeepers

• Unai Simón
• David Raya
• Joan Garca

Defenders

• Marc Cucurella
• Alejandro Grimaldo
• Pau Cubarsí
• Aymeric Laporte
• Marc Pubill
• Eric García
• Marcos Llorente
• Pedro Porro

Midfielders

• Pedri
• Fabián Ruiz
• Martín Zubimendi
• Gavi
• Rodri
• Álex Baena
• Mikel Merino
• Mikel Oyarzabal

Forwards

• Dani Olmo
• Nico Williams
• Yeremy Pino
• Ferran Torres
• Borja Iglesias
• Víctor Muñoz
• Lamine Yamal

Can Spain Challenge for the Title?

After winning Euro 2024 and building a balanced squad filled with experienced stars and young talents, Spain is being considered one of the serious contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup title.

Much will depend on:

• Lamine Yamal’s fitness
• Rodri’s midfield control
• Spain’s defensive stability
• Their performance in high-pressure knockout matches

If the young stars perform consistently, Spain could once again emerge as one of the strongest teams on football’s biggest stage.