• Spain are the bookmakers’ favourites to win the 2026 World Cup after claiming the Euro 2024 trophy
• Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal faces a race against time to recover from a hamstring tear before the tournament starts
• Manchester City midfielder Rodrigo Hernández remains the essential anchor in Luis de la Fuente’s tactical system

Spain stand on the brink of a new golden era. The national team captured the European Championship in Germany last summer. Now, they aim to conquer the 2026 World Cup across Canada, Mexico and the United States.

The country enjoyed unprecedented success between 2008 and 2012. That legendary side won two European titles and one World Cup. Stars like Andrés Iniesta, Xavi and Iker Casillas led that dominant period.

Today, a fresh generation carries similar expectations. Betting experts rank Spain as the top contenders for the trophy. However, serious injury concerns could block their path to victory.

Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal suffered a suspected hamstring tear against Celta Vigo. The forward now faces a desperate battle to regain fitness before the global showpiece begins. He has less than two months to recover.

Manager Luis de la Fuente plans to use a 4-2-3-1 formation. Here is the probable starting eleven for the opening Group H match against Cape Verde on June 15.

Goalkeeper

Unai Simón appears certain to start between the sticks. The Athletic Club captain has started 26 of De la Fuente’s 39 matches in charge. He also wears the armband regularly. David Raya of Arsenal and Joan García of Barcelona provide strong alternatives. However, Simón holds the manager’s complete trust despite his club’s disappointing mid-table position in La Liga.

Defence

Marc Cucurella should start at left-back. The Chelsea defender impressed greatly at Euro 2024. He even provided a crucial assist in the final against England. His energy and tenacity secure his place ahead of Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo.

The centre-back pairing remains less certain. Robin Le Normand of Atlético Madrid likely claims one spot if he overcomes recent knee troubles. He started regularly during the Euro 2024 triumph. Aymeric Laporte probably partners him. The 30-year-old brings valuable World Cup experience from Qatar 2022. However, Athletic Club have conceded 45 goals in La Liga this season. Youngsters Pau Cubarsí of Barcelona and Dean Huijsen of Real Madrid wait for opportunities behind the senior pair.

Pedro Porro looks set to claim the right-back position. The Tottenham Hotspur defender has emerged as the successor to Dani Carvajal. Porro offers a constant threat down the flank despite Spurs’ difficult Premier League campaign. Marcos Llorente provides cover across the defensive line.

Midfield

Rodrigo Hernández forms the defensive shield. The Manchester City star is essential to Spain’s success. He dictates the tempo and protects the back four with his brilliant tactical brain. De la Fuente relies heavily on his presence. However, a recent groin problem raises serious doubts about his fitness. He left the pitch early during the recent victory against Arsenal.

Pedro González López, known as Pedri, operates alongside him. The 23-year-old Barcelona midfielder already owns 40 caps. His positioning and vision unlock opposing defences with immaculate timing. Martín Zubimendi of Real Sociedad provides excellent depth in this area.

The attack depends heavily on Lamine Yamal recovering from injury. The Barcelona forward represents Spain’s most dangerous creative threat. His fitness remains the biggest question mark as De la Fuente finalises his squad for North America.