Spain name World Cup squad with no Real Madrid players for first time in history

Spain have named their squad for the 2026 World Cup, with the announcement marking the first time in the nation’s history that no Real Madrid player has been selected for the tournament.

Manager Luis de la Fuente confirmed his final squad on Monday ahead of this summer’s competition, with several major decisions attracting immediate attention.

The headline inclusion is teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who is set to make his World Cup debut after another outstanding campaign for Barcelona.

However, the 18-year-old is still recovering from a hamstring injury and is expected to miss Spain’s opening group game, while he is doubtful for the second match.

Mikel Merino has also been included despite only recently returning from a lengthy foot injury lay-off with Arsenal.

The midfielder returned to training this month and featured again during Arsenal’s final Premier League fixture before earning his place in the squad.

Barcelona midfielder Gavi is another notable inclusion after recovering from the serious knee injury that sidelined him for much of the season.

Spain’s squad has sparked the biggest discussion due to the complete absence of Madrid representation.

Defender Dean Huijsen had been strongly linked with selection but was ultimately left out.

Veteran full-back Dani Carvajal was unavailable after another injury-disrupted campaign, while several younger Madrid players failed to force their way into De la Fuente’s plans.

Spain have opted for a younger defensive group including Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia and Marc Pubill.

Pubill receives his first senior call-up, while Cubarsi is preparing for his first major international tournament.

De la Fuente insisted club affiliation played no part in his thinking when questioned about the lack of Madrid representation.

“I don’t look at where players come from,” the Spain boss said. “All I care about is selecting the players who I believe are best for the national team.”

Spain face Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay during the group stage.

Spain World Cup squad

Goalkeepers: Unai Simon, David Raya, Joan Garcia.

Defenders: Marc Cucurella, Alex Grimaldo, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Pubill, Eric Garcia, Marcos Llorente and Pedro Porro.

Midfielders: Pedri, Fabian Ruiz, Martin Zubimendi, Gavi, Rodri, Alex Baena and Mikel Merino.

Forwards: Mikel Oyarzabal, Dani Olmo, Nico Williams, Yeremy Pino, Ferran Torres, Borja Iglesias, Victor Munoz and Lamine Yamal.