Madrid, May 25 — Spain named injured forwards Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams to its World Cup squad on Monday, with coach Luis de la Fuente saying he expects both to be fit for the tournament’s start. The pair suffered muscle injuries late in the season but were nevertheless included in the 23-man roster ahead of Spain’s Group H opener against Cape Verde on June 15 in Atlanta. Spain then meets Saudi Arabia on June 21 in Atlanta and Uruguay on June 26 in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Yamal and Williams’ selections underline De la Fuente’s confidence in their recovery timelines. Both players missed club action toward the end of the campaign because of muscular problems, prompting questions about their readiness for a condensed tournament schedule.
The squad selection also produced a notable omission: for the first time, no Real Madrid player will travel with Spain to the World Cup. Defender Dean Huijsen, who had been under consideration, was left out by De la Fuente.
Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez was ruled out as expected after suffering a fracture to his right foot earlier this month. His absence was anticipated given the severity and timing of the injury.
Midfielder Mikel Merino returns to the national side despite limited club minutes; he has played just once for Arsenal since injuring his foot in January. Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Fabian Ruiz was also included even though he has recently dealt with an injury.
The squad balances risk and experience as Spain heads into a demanding group stage at the World Cup, with fitness updates on Yamal and Williams likely to be watched closely in the build-up to June 15. (AP)
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2026/05/26/injured-yamal-and-williams-in-spains-world-cup-squad/
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Publish Date: 2026-05-26 06:20:00
