Spain Manager Confirms Lamine Yamal to Start from Bench Against Cape Verde
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has revealed that teenage sensation Lamine Yamal will not start today’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Cape Verde, despite being fully fit after a left‑hamstring injury.
The 18‑year‑old Barcelona winger has been sidelined since April 22, but he has completed his rehabilitation and impressed in training. De la Fuente said Yamal is “in great shape,” has prepared well, and is available for selection.
“The best news is that Lamine is in great shape, he has prepared very well and is training very well, just like Nico (Williams) and Víctor (Muñoz). He is available, even if he won’t start the match, we’ll see how the game unfolds,” the coach stated.
De la Fuente added that Yamal is ready to play a few minutes if needed, emphasizing that the player would not be on the bench unless he were fit enough to contribute.
The cautious approach aims to protect the youngster from a relapse while still giving Spain a valuable attacking option off the bench.
De la Fuente on Spain’s World Cup Contenders
Beyond the Yamal update, the Spain boss addressed the growing expectations surrounding La Roja’s chances of lifting the trophy. He acknowledged that Spain is among the favourites but rejected the notion that they stand alone as the team to beat.
According to De la Fuente, this year’s tournament features an unusually strong field, with several nations capable of going all the way, including France, Argentina and England.
“What that means in sports is that you are among the potential contenders, but only one can win… I value it because it pays tribute to the exceptional journey of some players. I had never seen a World Cup with so many real contenders to win it,” he remarked.
Despite the competition, De la Fuente expressed confidence in his squad, insisting that Spain possesses the “best midfield in the world.”
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