Despite his overall good form, De la Fuente stated that Yamal will not start for the time being.

Spain will face Cape Verde in their first group stage match of the 2026 World Cup. Coach De la Fuente stated that although Yamal's recovery is progressing well, he will not be included in the starting lineup for the time being.

The 18-year-old Yamal contributed 16 goals and 11 assists for Barcelona in the 2025/26 La Liga season. Ultimately, Flick's team successfully lifted the La Liga title once again.

It is worth noting that Yamal suffered a leg injury in the final stages of the 2025/26 season.

Spain coach De la Fuente said, "Yamal is ready to play, but he won't start. He's in very good physical condition and can get some playing time in the game."

“Nico Williams and Victor Muñoz are both fit to play tomorrow and will not suffer a relapse of their injuries due to the game. If that were not the case, they wouldn’t even be on the bench.”

Speaking about the Spanish national team, De la Fuente pointed out, "Of course I have great respect for other teams, but this is the best team in the world, with the best players in the world. Just look at the players who didn't make the final squad to see how deep our squad is. However, the players understand their roles and accept these arrangements, which is the luckiest thing about this team."

“I see excitement, determination, and ambition in the players; they are all highly competitive. Tomorrow will be a milestone for many players making their World Cup debut. On such a stage, nothing is more important than facing the challenge with confidence and passion, and these are qualities that this team possesses.”

In addition, De la Fuente said, "The winning mentality is gradually cultivated in the national team environment. In life, there are often more failures than successes, but what is really important is character and the attitude shown when facing competition."

"These attitudes bring people closer to success, and they are the mindset that is essential for participating in any major competition."

Image source: Internet