Spain announce World Cup squad without Real Madrid players

Spain announce World Cup squad without Real Madrid players



The Spain national football team has unveiled its 26-player squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, with no representatives from Real Madrid CF included in the final selection.

It marks the first occasion in Spain’s football history that the national side will participate in a World Cup without a single Real Madrid player in the squad.

Head coach Luis de la Fuente has largely relied on players from FC Barcelona, with eight Barcelona footballers making the final squad.

Among the prominent names selected are Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Gavi, Dani Olmo, and Ferran Torres.

Several players linked with Real Madrid, including Dean Huijsen and Dani Carvajal, were omitted despite expectations surrounding their inclusion.

Explaining the decision, De la Fuente said player selection was based solely on dedication to the national side rather than club affiliation, adding that he preferred footballers who fully embrace the responsibility of representing Spain.

The squad also includes seven players currently playing in the Premier League. The coach expressed confidence that both Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams would be fully fit before the tournament begins.