— Spain: No Real Madrid players selected for the World Cup, a first
Spain: No Real Madrid players selected for the World Cup, a first. (Photo: RFEF)

The most striking takeaway from Spain's 2026 World Cup squad is the complete absence of any Real Madrid players. This total absence is unprecedented in the history of the Spanish national team. A central club in Spanish football, accustomed to supplying key players to La Roja, Real Madrid will therefore have no representatives in the squad selected for the World Cup. This choice marks a powerful symbolic break and lends a particular significance to the squad.

Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams were both present despite their injuries.

Despite their injury problems, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are included in the Spanish squad. The two wingers, expected to be key weapons in the attacking line, have been selected to play in the 2026 World Cup. Their presence confirms the coach's desire to rely on players capable of making a difference with their speed, dribbling, and attacking prowess. Their physical condition will, however, be closely monitored before the start of the tournament.

Merino has recovered, Fabian Ruiz is also on the trip

In midfield, Mikel Merino returns to the squad after recovering from injury. His profile brings impact, control, and balance to the Spanish midfield. Fabian Ruiz has also been selected. The Paris Saint-Germain player will accompany La Roja to the World Cup, confirming his place in Spain's plans.

Here is the complete list of the Spanish team for the 2026 World Cup:

guardians  

Unai Simon (Athletic Club)

David Raya (Arsenal FC)

Joan Garcia (FC Barcelona)

Défenseurs  

Pedro Porro (Tottenham Hotspur)

Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid)

Aymeric Laporte (Athletic Club)

Pau Cubarsí (FC Barcelona)

Marc Pubill (Atletico Madrid)

Eric Garcia (FC Barcelona)

Marc Cucurella (Chelsea FC)

Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer 04 Leverkusen)

Milieux  

Rodrigo Hernandez (Manchester City FC)

Martin Zubimendi (Arsenal FC)

Pedri Gonzalez (FC Barcelona)

Fabian Ruiz (Paris Saint-Germain)

Mikel Merino (Arsenal FC)

Pablo Páez “Gavi” (FC Barcelona)

Alex Baena (Atlético Madrid)

Attaquants  

Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad)

Lamine Yamal (FC Barcelona)

Ferran Torres (FC Barcelona)

Borja Iglesias (RC Celta)

Dani Olmo (FC Barcelona)

Víctor Muñoz (CA Osasuna)

Nico WilliamsAthletic Club

Yeremy Pino (Crystal Palace FC)