Spain Coach: Yamal to Start on Bench in Opener, but 'Condition is Perfect'

Lamine Yamal (FC Barcelona), one of the most anticipated stars at the 2026 North and Central America World Cup, is expected to start on the bench for Spain's opening group stage match against Cape Verde.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente stated at an official press conference held at Atlanta Stadium in Georgia, U.S., on June 15 (KST), ahead of the Group H opening match against Cape Verde, "Yamal is available to play, but he will not start." He added, "He is in perfect condition to play for a few minutes."

Spain, considered one of the favorites to win this World Cup, will play its first match of the tournament against Cape Verde at Atlanta Stadium on June 16.

Although only 18, Yamal has already led Spain to victory in the UEFA European Championship and established himself as a top star, contributing to Barcelona's league title this season with 16 goals and 11 assists in La Liga.

While he is considered a contender for the Golden Boot in his first-ever World Cup, concerns were raised after he was sidelined for the remainder of the season in April due to a hamstring injury, though he was ultimately included in the final roster.

He has focused on rehabilitation and did not participate in Spain's friendly matches held ahead of the World Cup.

"We are following the advice of the medical staff and fitness coaches from both Barcelona and the national team. Everything indicates that Yamal is ready to play tomorrow," said coach De la Fuente. "I don't know how many minutes he will play. It will depend on how the match unfolds, but he is in an ideal state to play tomorrow."

De la Fuente added that Nico Williams, who suffered a muscle injury, and Victor Munoz, who had thigh pain, are also in good enough condition to be included on the substitute list.

Meanwhile, Spain's first opponent, Cape Verde, is making its first appearance on the World Cup stage.

Coach De la Fuente assessed Cape Verde by saying, "They might be one of the teams that will cause a stir in this World Cup."

Cape Verde head coach Pedro Brito expressed his determination, stating, "The match will be intense. We will approach it without fear."

(Photo: Opta SNS capture, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.