Lamine Yamal will carry Spain’s hopes into the World Cup semi-finals against France, leading a refreshed squad that blends teenage brilliance with returning experience. The Barcelona winger turns 19 on 13 July, the eve of the match, and will make his tournament debut fresh from playing a decisive role in last summer’s European Championship triumph.
Despite a muscle problem disrupting the end of his club season, Yamal remains the focal point of Luis de la Fuente’s attack. His creativity and leadership within the national team setup have already marked him as a generational talent, even as he steps onto the global stage for the first time.
Fresh Faces and Surprising Inclusions
While Yamal commands the spotlight, Víctor Muñoz represents one of De la Fuente’s bolder selections. The 22-year-old winger has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at Osasuna following his departure from Real Madrid, who retain 50 per cent of his economic rights. Muñoz ranks among La Liga’s fastest players, having recorded speeds of 35km/h this season, and offers direct dribbling and dangerous runs in behind defences.
Muñoz has already announced himself on the international scene, scoring on his debut during Spain’s 3-0 victory over Serbia in March. His pace makes him an ideal impact substitute as La Roja seek to exploit French fatigue.
García’s Quiet Resurgence
Eric García returns to the national team for the first time since 2022, rewarded for a season of understated excellence at Barcelona. Under Hansi Flick, the 25-year-old has evolved into a key organiser, valued for his intelligence, positioning and composure when initiating attacks from defence.
“Since then I had to work a lot, without making noise, to be better,” García told El País via the Guardian Sports Network. His ability to operate at centre-back or in midfield provides De la Fuente with tactical flexibility against France’s varied threats.
Youth and Experience at the Back
De la Fuente’s defensive selections balance prodigious youth with proven pedigree. Pau Cubarsí, 19, has assumed a leadership role in Barcelona’s backline and now anchors Spain’s defence alongside Aymeric Laporte, who returned to Athletic Club last summer after winning the 2023 Nations League and Euro 2024.
Between the posts, Unai Simón remains the established number one despite mounting competition. David Raya has established himself among the world’s elite at Arsenal, while Joan García arrived at Barcelona for €25 million with ambitions of becoming the club’s first-choice goalkeeper. Antonio Sivera and the uncapped Pubill, an Olympic gold medallist who can cover centre-back or right-back, complete a unit tasked with nullifying France’s attack.