Analysis— 5 min read
Spain enter the 2026 World Cup as the team most neutrals expect to win it. Fresh from their Euro 2024 triumph, Luis de la Fuente has assembled a squad brimming with quality — Pedri and Gavi back from injury, a settled midfield, and arguably the most dangerous teenager in world football leading the line.
That teenager is Lamine Yamal, and the question of how fit he will be at kick-off is the biggest anxiety in the Spanish camp. The Barcelona forward tore his hamstring scoring a penalty against Celta Vigo in April, bringing his club season to an early end and throwing his World Cup availability into serious doubt.
De la Fuente confirmed this week that Yamal will not feature in Spain's warm-up match against Iraq, but has expressed cautious optimism that the 18-year-old could be available for the group opener against Cape Verde in Atlanta on June 15. "If nothing changes, he could be ready to play on June 15," the coach said. "Maybe a few minutes, maybe just practice so he can improve his condition for the second match."
Even a partially fit Yamal changes what Spain can do. His ability to beat defenders, create chances in tight spaces and deliver under pressure is unlike anything else in the tournament. Without him at full strength, the burden shifts to a supporting cast that is talented but not as naturally decisive in the final third.
Spain's group — Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde and Uruguay — is navigable even with squad rotation. The real test comes in the knockout rounds, where the pressure of being pre-tournament favourites has historically proved its own obstacle for this generation. The Yamal question will define how far they go.