Spain coach Luis de la Fuente announced a 26-player squad [1] on Monday for the 2026 World Cup.
The selection marks a significant shift in the national team's composition, most notably through the complete absence of players from Real Madrid [3]. This decision comes as the team seeks a second world title for the country.
De la Fuente presented the list at the Telefónica Building in Madrid [4]. The roster includes two new additions who have not previously appeared for the senior national team: Eric García and Marc Pubill [2].
"Do we feel like favorites? Yes. Capable of winning a World Cup? Yes," de la Fuente said.
The timing of the announcement provides the team with three weeks of preparation before their tournament debut [5]. Spain is scheduled to play its first match against Cape Verde on June 11, 2026 [4].
De la Fuente expressed confidence in the chemistry of the selected group. "We have a very balanced group and with a lot of potential to go far in the World Cup," de la Fuente said.
The squad's structure focuses on balance and potential to navigate the tournament's knockout stages. By integrating new talent like García and Pubill, the coaching staff aims to provide tactical versatility across the defensive line.
“"Do we feel like favorites? Yes. Capable of winning a World Cup? Yes,"”
The total exclusion of Real Madrid players from the national squad is a rare occurrence for a top-tier European team and suggests a deliberate tactical or personnel pivot by de la Fuente. By prioritizing a 'balanced group' over the traditional powerhouse of the Spanish league, the coach is betting on cohesion and new blood to secure the country's second star.
