Spain announce 2026 World Cup squad: No Real Madrid players included
Luis de la Fuente has confirmed his 26-man Spain squad for the 2026 World Cup, featuring eight Barcelona players while excluding Real Madrid representatives entirely.
Photo: goal.com
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has officially confirmed his 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, sparking significant debate due to the total exclusion of Real Madrid players. It marks the first time in the history of the tournament that the national team will not feature a single representative from the Spanish capital's giants.
Instead, De la Fuente has placed his trust in the core of Barcelona, with eight players making the final cut. The group includes Joan Garcia, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Gavi, Pedri, Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, and Lamine Yamal. This selection reflects the manager's commitment to the domestic success currently enjoyed by the Catalan side.
We have to be cautious, despite being favourites. I don’t shy away, we are favourites, but we’re equally as favourites as England or France. Luis de la Fuente
The build-up to the tournament has not been without fitness concerns. Midfielder Fermin Lopez has been ruled out of contention following a fracture to his fifth metatarsal during a recent match against Real Betis. Conversely, Nico Williams has been included despite his late-season injury at Athletic Club. The squad also integrates key talent from the Premier League, notably David Raya, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, and Rodri.
Ahead of the tournament, Spain will fine-tune their preparations with friendlies against Iraq and Mexico. The national team will then begin their World Cup campaign in Group H, facing Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay.