News Focus
- Spain manager Luis de la Fuente labels La Roja as favourites for the 2026 World Cup
- The tournament kicks off soon across the United States, Mexico and Canada
- The final 26-man squad will be announced within the next 48 hours
- Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal will travel but misses the opening match against Cape Verde
- Midfielder Gavi secures his place following a strong return to form
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has boldly claimed that his side enters the 2026 World Cup as one of the main favourites to lift the trophy. The tournament begins in North America in just a few weeks time.
Speaking before he names his squad this week, De la Fuente accepted the pressure that comes with the favourites tag. He stated that Spain belongs in this top group, though he believes England and France share the same status.
“We must be careful, even if we are favourites,” the coach said during a podcast interview. “We need to keep our feet on the ground. I do not hide from this word. We are favourites, but England and France are equals.”
The Spanish Football Federation will confirm their 26-man selection within the next two days. FC Barcelona teenage sensation Lamine Yamal will make the journey, though he cannot feature in the first fixture against Cape Verde due to suspension.
De la Fuente also confirmed that Gavi will join the squad. The Barcelona midfielder has earned his spot after showing excellent form following his recovery from injury.
The manager stressed that club rivalries hold no power inside the national team camp. He demanded that players forget whether they represent Real Madrid, FC Barcelona or other clubs when they wear the Spain shirt.
“There are no club players here, only national team players,” De la Fuente explained. “This is a different mentality. We must forget everything else and always bring the best.”
Spain aim to secure their second world title, sixteen years after winning their first crown in South Africa.