Yamal And Williams Set To Return For Spain’s World Cup Opener

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has confirmed that Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal and Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams are expected to be available for Spain’s opening match at the World Cup, following recovery from recent hamstring injuries.

According to Ireporter Online, Spain will begin their campaign against debutants Cape Verde on June 15, with De la Fuente expressing optimism that both players, alongside Osasuna winger Víctor Muñoz, are making strong progress in their rehabilitation.

Yamal and Williams both missed the closing stages of the club season due to injury concerns, raising initial doubts over their fitness ahead of the tournament. However, the national team coach revealed on Sunday that the trio should be ready for Spain’s opening fixture in Atlanta.

The three players did not travel with the main squad for Monday’s friendly against Peru in Mexico, as they remained at the team’s training base in the United States to continue recovery under the supervision of Spain’s medical and fitness staff.

“We regret that they are not here with us, but the medical and physical conditioning staff advised them to stay there,” De la Fuente said. “All three should be available for the next match… they are progressing well in their recovery and are doing very well.”

Their anticipated return is seen as a significant boost for Spain, who head into the tournament among the favourites. Yamal, just 18, is widely regarded as one of the most exciting young talents in world football and is expected to play a major role for the European champions, while Williams adds pace and attacking width to the squad.

Spain will face Cape Verde in their opening fixture before remaining in Atlanta to play Saudi Arabia in their second group match. They will then travel to Guadalajara for their final group-stage game against Uruguay, with De la Fuente hoping to have a fully fit squad as Spain targets another international title.