Spain has announced their squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the biggest surprise being the absence of any Real Madrid players from the team.
It is the first time in the country’s history since 1950 that Spain will participate in a World Cup without a single player from the Spanish giants.
Head coach Luis de la Fuente named a 26-man squad largely dominated by Barcelona players, including young stars Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Gavi.
The squad also features experienced names such as Rodri, Mikel Merino and David Raya as Spain prepares for another major international tournament.
The omission of Real Madrid players has generated widespread discussion. Veteran defender Dani Carvajal, who has been a regular figure for Spain over the years, failed to make the squad after struggling with injuries during the season.
Young defender Dean Huijsen, who was also linked with a possible call-up, was left out as well.
Real Madrid has historically played a major role in the Spanish national team, producing some of the country’s greatest footballers over the decades.
From Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos to Xabi Alonso and Raul, the club has consistently had representatives in Spain squads at major tournaments.
However, this year’s selection signals a changing era for La Roja, with the coach placing his trust in younger talents and players enjoying strong seasons elsewhere.
Spain head into the tournament among the favourites after their impressive performances in recent international competitions, but the absence of Real Madrid representation will remain one of the biggest talking points ahead of the World Cup.
See the full list of the 26-man squad and their clubs below;
Goalkeepers: Unai Simón – Athletic Club, David Raya – Arsenal, Joan García – FC Barcelona
Defenders: Marc Cucurella – Chelsea, Alejandro Grimaldo – Bayer Leverkusen, Pau Cubarsí – FC Barcelona, Aymeric Laporte – Athletic Club, Marc Pubill – Atlético Madrid, Marcos Llorente – Atlético Madrid, Pedro Porro – Tottenham Hotspur
Midfielders: Pedri – FC Barcelona, Fabián Ruiz – Paris Saint-Germain, Martín Zubimendi – Arsenal, Gavi – FC Barcelona, Rodri – Manchester City, Álex Baena – Atlético Madrid, Mikel Merino – Arsenal
Forwards: Mikel Oyarzabal – Real Sociedad, Dani Olmo – FC Barcelona, Nico Williams – Athletic Club, Yéremy Pino – Crystal Palace, Ferran Torres – FC Barcelona, Borja Iglesias – Celta Vigo, Víctor Muñoz – Osasuna, Lamine Yamal – FC Barcelona
