This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among leading media outlets from the 48 nations that have qualified. Previews are being shared daily as the tournament approaches, starting on 11 June.
Spain’s Ambitious Strategy
Spain stands out as one of the top contenders in North America this summer, bolstered by a squad selected by Luis de la Fuente that exudes confidence and balance. He has assembled a competitive team that adheres to a style of football synonymous with previous successes. The European champions are eager to add a second star to their crest.
The spotlight has largely fallen on Lamine Yamal of Barcelona, whose creativity and flair have revitalized Spain’s attacking options. Alongside him, Nico Williams showcased his form at Athletic Club before a hamstring injury posed a setback. Both wingers were instrumental during Euro 2024, bringing fresh energy to a team known for its possession. De la Fuente remarked, “Do we think we’re favourites? Yes. Can we win the World Cup? Yes. But that doesn’t guarantee anything,”
However, both Yamal and Williams may miss the opening match against Cape Verde, and potentially the second game against Saudi Arabia, as Yamal is also dealing with a hamstring issue. Nevertheless, they are expected to return by the end of the group stage.
The squad is filled with talent as they prepare to face Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde in the group phase. De la Fuente faces a pleasant dilemma in goal, with regular starter Unai Simón challenged by David Raya and Joan García, both of whom come into the tournament after strong seasons with Arsenal and Barcelona. Defensively, Eric García has earned a recall after solidifying his role as a dependable defender for Barça. The midfield shines with the likes of Pedri, Gavi, and Martín Zubimendi, who epitomize a possession-based playstyle, complemented by the prowess of Rodri and Fabián Ruiz.
With the dynamic skills of Yamal and Williams, alongside the goal-scoring capabilities of Mikel Oyarzabal—who excels in key moments—backed by Ferran Torres and Borja Iglesias, scoring should not pose an issue for a team that netted 21 goals in six qualifiers, achieving five wins and a draw. De la Fuente has successfully blended youth with experience, talent with maturity, and ambition.
Coaching Philosophy
Luis de la Fuente has molded Spain into a cohesive and highly competitive unit. His coaching style merges the classic possession game that has characterized Spanish football with a new sense of directness and tactical versatility. Known for his effective communication and management skills, he fosters a healthy competitive atmosphere within the team. De la Fuente guided La Roja to their third European Championship title in 2024, showcasing exceptional football, and he has made bold decisions for the World Cup squad, notably excluding Real Madrid players for the first time. “I don’t look at whether they come from one club or another. They’re all Spain players,” he stated.
Spotlight on Lamine Yamal
Lamine Yamal is set to be a focal point at his inaugural World Cup. The young talent will turn 19 on 13 July, just a day before the semi-finals commence, and his extraordinary abilities will place the weight of national hopes on him. Playful and inventive, the winger plays with the carefree spirit of a casual game, yet he has emerged as a natural leader within the squad. Having contributed significantly to the Euro 2024 success, he now steps onto the global stage. A muscle issue has hampered the conclusion of his season at Barcelona, but there are no doubts about his capacity to shine under pressure.
Emerging Talents
Víctor Muñoz’s selection for Luis de la Fuente’s squad came as a pleasant surprise. The 22-year-old winger has had a breakout season at Osasuna after leaving Real Madrid, which retains 50% of his rights. Clocking in at 35kph this season, he ranks among La Liga’s fastest players, making dangerous runs behind defenses. As a direct dribbler, Muñoz could be a game-changer off the bench for Spain this summer, having scored on his debut in March during a 3-0 victory over Serbia.
A Steady Presence
Eric García often flies under the radar. The former Manchester City defender has diligently established himself at Barcelona, becoming a crucial player for Hansi Flick due to his intelligence, positioning, and calmness in transitioning the ball from defense. Now 25, García has matured into a leader on the pitch, frequently orchestrating play from the back or even from midfield. His reliability and consistency have earned him a return to the national squad for the first time since 2022. “Since then I had to work a lot, without making noise, to be better,” he reflects.
Expected Lineup
Fan Engagement
Spain’s supporters typically travel in large groups to major tournaments, motivated by the team’s attractive style of play and recent triumphs. Spectators often don traditional attire resembling bullfighters or wave flags adorned with bull imagery. While these symbols do not completely capture Spain’s diversity, they resonate deeply with the national team’s identity. Manolo ‘el del bombo,’ known for his drum, was a familiar figure at tournaments, and even after his passing last year, fans continue to honor him by beating drums.
Political Context
Relations between Spain and the United States are currently strained. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been a vocal critic of Donald Trump’s military actions in Iran, denying the use of Spanish military bases for such operations. Trump responded by criticizing Spain, stating, “Spain has been terrible,” and threatened to halt trade relations. Despite these tensions, the enthusiasm of traveling supporters remains undeterred, and neither the players nor the football federation have publicly addressed the issue. Concerns have been raised regarding ticket prices and travel expenses, alongside apprehensions about the U.S.’s ongoing involvement in Iran and its alliance with Israel regarding Gaza.
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