Spain announce official World Cup squad numbers
Lamine Yamal retains the No.19 shirt, while Gavi's assignment to the No.9 jersey sparks fan debate.
Spain have officially confirmed their squad numbers for the upcoming World Cup. Teenage star Lamine Yamal will continue to wear the No.19 shirt, a number he has made his own while playing for Barcelona.
The most debated decision in the announcement was the allocation of the No.9 shirt to midfielder Gavi. Traditionally reserved for centre-forwards, the jersey has been worn by iconic strikers like Fernando Torres and Alvaro Morata in the past. Assigning it to a midfielder has led to significant discussion among supporters on social media.
Elsewhere in the squad, Dani Olmo has been handed the No.10 shirt. Nico Williams will wear No.17, and Mikel Oyarzabal takes the No.21 jersey. In goal, David Raya is confirmed as No.1, while Unai Simon has been assigned No.23.
«We have to be cautious, despite being favourites. We have to go with our feet on the ground. I don’t shy away, we are favourites, but we’re equally as favourites as England or France,» said Luis de la Fuente.
Head coach Luis de la Fuente has expressed confidence in his team's prospects while maintaining a grounded approach. Spain are drawn into Group H alongside Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. Before the tournament begins, the team will continue their preparations with friendly matches against Iraq and Peru.