Spain’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign faces a setback as they may have to start the tournament without their standout player, Lamine Yamal, due to a hamstring injury.
Yamal is expected to miss Spain’s opening match against Cape Verde on June 15, and his availability for the second group match against Saudi Arabia remains uncertain. This situation complicates the group stage for coach Luis de la Fuente’s squad.
Yamal’s absence is a significant concern for the team.
At just 18 years old, he has evolved into one of Spain’s crucial attacking assets. His ability to outmaneuver defenders, generate chances from the flanks, and alter the tempo of a game makes him a key player for Spain.
Despite having a talented roster, Spain lacks that specific fear factor when Yamal is not on the field, as his presence consistently poses a threat to opposition defenses.
The timing of this injury is particularly unfortunate, as Barcelona teammate Fermin Lopez has also sustained a fractured fifth metatarsal and will undergo surgery, raising further doubts about his World Cup participation. For a young Spain team, these injuries are accumulating at a challenging time.
Fortunately for Spain, recent reports suggest that Yamal’s injury might not be tournament-ending. Both Spain and Barcelona are keeping a close watch on his recovery, with optimism about his potential return later in the group stage or being ready for the knockout rounds.
However, this remains a risky situation.
The World Cup is unforgiving, and an early slip could alter a team’s trajectory. Spain is still expected to win against Cape Verde without Yamal, yet if he is unavailable for the match against Saudi Arabia, the pressure will intensify ahead of a demanding final group game against Uruguay.
Spain’s objective is clear: navigate the early matches, avoid rushing Yamal back, and ensure he is in peak condition when the tournament reaches its critical stages.
To secure their first World Cup title since 2010, Spain likely needs Lamine Yamal fit, explosive, and ready to dominate matches.