Injured Yamal Makes Spain’s World Cup Squad — But No Real Madrid Player Included

Spain have included teenage sensation Lamine Yamal in their 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup despite ongoing concerns surrounding the forward’s fitness ahead of the tournament.

Reports indicate that the FC Barcelona star has been sidelined since suffering a torn left hamstring during the club’s fixture in April. However, Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente expressed confidence that the youngster would be fully fit before the country’s opening game of the competition.

The coach also named Nico Williams in the squad despite the winger battling fitness issues in recent weeks.

One of the biggest talking points following the squad announcement was the complete absence of players from Real Madrid CF, marking the first time in Spain’s World Cup history that no player from the club was selected. Defenders Dean Huijsen and Dani Carvajal were among the notable omissions.

Mikel Merino earned a return to the national team after recovering from a lengthy injury lay-off, having recently featured in Arsenal F.C.’s final Premier League match of the season.

The squad also features several players based in the English Premier League, including David Raya, Martin Zubimendi, Pedro Porro, Marc Cucurella, Rodri and Yeremy Pino.

Uncapped defenders Eric Garcia and Marc Pubill were rewarded with call-ups after impressive performances for their respective clubs.

Meanwhile, Fermin Lopez will miss the tournament after suffering a broken foot.

Spain are scheduled to begin their World Cup campaign against Cape Verde national football team on June 15 before taking on Saudi Arabia national football team and Uruguay national football team in Group H.