Spain’s most electric attacking duo won’t be in the starting XI when the defending European champions kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign. Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, the two young wingers who terrorized defenses at Euro 2024, have been named to the bench for Spain’s opener against Cape Verde on June 15.
Coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed that while both players are fit, their introduction will depend entirely on how the match unfolds. The decision comes after the pair returned to full training at Spain’s base in Chattanooga, Tennessee, just days before the tournament opener, having missed a pre-tournament friendly while recovering from hamstring injuries.
Why de la Fuente is playing it safe
Both players completed full training sessions in the days leading up to the match. That’s an encouraging sign, but there’s a meaningful gap between “cleared for training” and “ready for 90 minutes of World Cup intensity.” De la Fuente appears to understand the difference.
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