In a refreshingly honest and professional statement, Spain national team coach Luis de la Fuente addressed the noticeable absence of Real Madrid players in his 2026 World Cup squad.
“I don’t look at any player’s club: I only look at whether they have the possibility of playing with us. I don’t look at whether they come from one team or another, I don’t have that localist mentality that a fan might have.”
De la Fuente made it clear that his selection is based purely on form, fitness, and how well players fit into the team’s system — not on club colors or fan pressure. This calm, merit-based approach has been a hallmark of his coaching style.
Spain’s Official 2026 World Cup Squad
Here’s the complete squad Luis de la Fuente has selected:
Goalkeepers (Porteros)
- Unai Simón (Athletic Club)
- David Raya (Arsenal)
- Joan García (Espanyol/Barcelona)
Defenders (Defensas)
- Marc Cucurella
- Alejandro Grimaldo
- Pau Cubarsí
- Aymeric Laporte
- Pubill
- Eric García
- Marcos Llorente
- Pedro Porro
Midfielders (Centrocampistas)
- Pedri
- Fabián Ruiz
- Martín Zubimendi
- Gavi
- Rodri
- Álex Baena
- Mikel Merino
Forwards (Delanteros)
- Mikel Oyarzabal
- Dani Olmo
- Nico Williams
- Yeremy Pino
- Ferran Torres
- Borja Iglesias
- Víctor Muñoz
- Lamine Yamal
A Young, Exciting Squad
The squad blends experienced internationals like Rodri, Laporte, and Dani Olmo with exciting young talents such as Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Gavi, Pau Cubarsí, and Nico Williams. It’s a team full of technical quality, energy, and huge potential.
Fans from all clubs will surely be hoping this group can bring joy to Spain this summer. What matters most is the red jersey — and De la Fuente seems determined to pick the players who can make Spain shine on the biggest stage.