World Cup Contenders | Spain
The first in a series of articles where our writers explore who might win the World Cup
First up, we exmaine the chances of the 2010 winners Spain
Author | Jack L
Among fans around the world, Spain remain the favourites to win the tournament. There have been a few concerns, most notably the hamstring injury suffered by teenage winger Lamine Yamal, the player many are most eager to see. While the Barcelona star is expected to recover in time to be included in Spain’s squad, any setback could leave them facing a difficult campaign.
Spain still possess an abundance of quality and should be capable of easing their way through the World Cup, particularly with a kinder group than some of their rivals.
Despite that easy group and some fantastic performances in qualifying, nothing is taken for granted at this level, and shocks remain part of the enduring appeal and mystique of the competition.
Can the European champions shine on the world stage?
This will be the third time this century that Spain head into the World Cup as reigning champions of Europe.
They did so at South Africa 2010 and lifted the trophy, but they were sent packing early after a disappointing group-stage showing at Brazil 2014. How will 2026 shape up?
Players battle to be included in the squad
Although the final squad has yet to be announced, the spine of the team already appears well established. In goal, Unai Simón and David Raya are viewed as automatic selections, with attention instead focused on the battle for the third goalkeeper’s place.
The emergence of Joan García has created genuine competition for Álex Remiro, who had been a regular in previous squads. That contest could become one of Luis de la Fuente’s most closely scrutinised decisions before the final list is confirmed.
In defence, the most notable omission is undoubtedly Dani Carvajal. Injuries and a lack of continuity ultimately ruled him out of what may have been his final World Cup. Meanwhile, players such as Pedro Porro, Marcos Llorente, Marc Cucurella and Alejandro Grimaldo appear to have secured their places.
At centre-back, Spain continue to balance youth with experience. Pau Cubarsí is already regarded as a certain starter, while Aymeric Laporte and Dean Huijsen currently seem to hold the advantage. Other options include Robin Le Normand, Cristhian Mosquera, Eric García and Marc Pubill.
From an attacking perspective, they have an outrageous level of depth. There will be players that will almost certainly miss out that would into the squad of almost every other nation on the planet. As we've already said, many expect Yemal to be key.
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