Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has delivered a confident message ahead of the 2026 World Cup, insisting his squad contains the best players in world football while also revealing that teenage star Lamine Yamal is expected to be fit for the tournament opener.
The reigning European champions will head into the competition among the favourites for the title after a period of major progress under De la Fuente’s leadership.
Spain, known as Spain national football team or “La Roja”, have built a squad that combines emerging young talents with experienced players, creating what many observers view as one of the most balanced teams heading into the tournament.
The draw for the 2026 World Cup placed Spain in Group H alongside Uruguay national football team, Saudi Arabia national football team and Cape Verde national football team.
Much of the attention surrounding Spain has focused on a new generation led by Barcelona youngsters Lamine Yamal and Pedri, both of whom have become central figures in the national team project.
Speaking in comments reported by the Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo, De la Fuente expressed strong confidence in the quality and mentality of his players.
“We have the best players in the world,” he said.
The Spain coach explained that his assessment was not based solely on footballing ability, but also on the discipline and mentality shown by his squad.
According to De la Fuente, the players possess a high level of professionalism and remain focused despite increasing expectations around the team ahead of the World Cup.
The remarks underline growing belief within the Spanish camp that the current generation can return the country to the top of world football after several disappointing World Cup campaigns in recent years.
Spain last won the World Cup in 2010, but the team has since struggled to reproduce that level of dominance on the global stage. However, their recent European Championship success has renewed optimism that the national side is capable of challenging for another major international title.
De la Fuente also addressed concerns surrounding the fitness of teenage winger Lamine Yamal, who has become one of the most closely watched young players in international football.
The Barcelona forward has emerged as a key attacking figure for both club and country, and questions had been raised over whether he would be fully prepared for the start of the tournament.
When asked about Yamal’s condition, De la Fuente responded positively.
“Well, as we always do, naturally and spontaneously, we talk to him clearly about what he will face. He is a footballer and a very mature person for his age. He has a great ability to understand situations quickly.”
The coach added that Spain’s medical staff remain in constant communication with the player as they continue to monitor his recovery and overall condition ahead of the competition.
He continued, “First and foremost, we believe he will arrive in good condition. We are in constant contact with him and the medical staff, who update us daily on his progress. We know he will be in top form, and I am almost certain he will be ready for the first match, but we will continue to monitor his progress.”
The update is likely to provide reassurance for Spain supporters, with Yamal considered one of the key figures in the country’s hopes of lifting the World Cup trophy in 2026.
