Squad Announcement Imminent, Details Confirmed
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has officially confirmed that the final 26-man squad for this year’s World Cup will be announced on Monday, May 25, 2026. It is understood that around 20 players have already secured their spots.
Additionally, the coaching staff will call up several training players to assist the national team’s preparations until the friendly match on June 4. Notably, these support players will not be from the previously submitted 55-man preliminary list.
Winger Position in Crisis, Facing a Shortage
Currently, Spain’s biggest challenge is the winger position. The once deep pool of talent has been hit by a widespread injury crisis, affecting almost the entire lineup. Aside from the in-form Lamine Yamal, who is considered a definite inclusion, the selection of other candidates will depend on their respective recovery progress. This creates significant uncertainty for the head coach’s lineup decisions.
Defense and Attack Also Face Uncertainty
Beyond the winger position, the team’s choices for center-back and center-forward are not straightforward, as injuries and form issues also trouble the coaching staff.
Fourth Center-Back Spot Undecided
For the center-back position, competition for the fourth spot beyond the main starters is fierce. The coaching staff is reportedly concerned about the recent form of Real Madrid youngster Huijsen. Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid’s Pubill and Mosquera have also entered the consideration frame due to their steady performances in the league, making the final choice unpredictable.
Attack Hit by More Injuries
The team has also received bad news regarding the center-forward position. Ferran Torres is rumored to have a muscle strain, with the severity still unclear. Meanwhile, another player, Fermín López, unfortunately suffered a fracture during a league match over the weekend and may require surgery, effectively ruling him out of the tournament.
World Cup Outlook: A Challenge Under the Shadow of Injuries
Although Spain’s opponents in the World Cup group stage are not considered the strongest, the sudden wave of serious injuries has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the team’s preparations. The absence of several key players in crucial positions makes it uncertain when the team will be able to field its strongest lineup. How to adjust the squad and overcome the impact of these injuries will be the first major test Spain faces in this World Cup.
