Spain will compete at the World Cup this summer without representation from Real Madrid for the first time ever, according to the 26-man squad named Monday by coach Luis de la Fuente. The lineup notably excludes Real Madrid defenders Dean Huijsen, Dani Carvajal, and Gonzalo García, marking a historic absence from the Spanish federation's tournament roster.
De la Fuente announced his selections at an event in Madrid, also leaving out Barcelona midfielder Fermín López and former European champion captain Álvaro Morata of Como. When asked about the cuts, the coach emphasized his selections were tactical rather than based on club affiliation. "I don't look at whether they play for one team or another," he said.
Injuries complicate Spain's preparation heading into the tournament. Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal, 18, suffered a left hamstring tear on April 22 that ended his club's La Liga season. Yet De la Fuente backed the teenager for inclusion, expressing confidence in his recovery timeline alongside other fitness concerns affecting Athletic Club's Nico Williams and Arsenal's Mikel Merino.
"We're very calm," De la Fuente said of the injury questions. "I think that if there are no setbacks, we can almost have everyone available from the first game. The doctor and fitness coach have been visiting the clubs and talking to them." He added: "I have no doubt they'll be ready for the first game, and if not, they'll be ready for the second."
Spain brings World No. 2 ranking into Group H, where they face Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. Their campaign opens June 15 in Atlanta against Cape Verde, followed by June 21 in Atlanta versus Saudi Arabia. The group stage concludes June 26 in Guadalajara, Mexico, when Spain meets Uruguay.
Two-time champions Spain hope to rebound from a 2022 World Cup failure, when Morocco knocked them out in the round of 16. Friendlies against Iraq and Peru will serve as final tune-ups before the tournament.
The squad itself is built around Barcelona's strength in midfield and attack, with Gavi, Pedri, Rodri, and forward talent like Dani Olmo. The goalkeeping options include Arsenal's David Raya and Athletic Club's Unai Simón, along with Barcelona's Joan García.
Author James Rodriguez: "Removing Real Madrid entirely is bold, but if Spain's depth in Barcelona's formation holds up through group play, this squad could make that historic exclusion look prescient rather than reckless."
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