Spain coach confirms key forwards on track for World Cup opener

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has confirmed that forwards Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Victor Munoz are on track to be available for the national team’s opening 2026 World Cup match against Cape Verde on 15 June. The announcement comes as the squad prepares for the tournament in the United States, with the coach indicating that the players are progressing within expected timelines.

The three players remained at the team’s training base in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to continue their rehabilitation from injuries rather than travelling with the main squad for the final warm-up friendly against Peru in Puebla, Mexico. De la Fuente told reporters that if there are no setbacks in the coming days, all three will be in a position to play.

While expressing confidence in their availability, De la Fuente remained cautious regarding their potential starting status. He noted that the most important factor is that the players meet their recovery timelines to be selected at some point during the match, rather than guaranteeing they would begin the game on the pitch.

Spain, the reigning Euro 2024 champions, arrive in the United States as the leading contenders for the tournament. Forward Yeremy Pino stated that the squad is embracing the expectation of being favourites following their recent continental triumph. He emphasised that the pressure should serve to improve performance rather than diminish it.

The squad is currently in Mexico for the friendly against Peru before travelling to Atlanta for the World Cup opener. De la Fuente stressed that the team is not approaching the match against Peru simply as a preparation game, citing its importance in the final stages of their preparations.