Spain, De La Fuente has decided: Oyarzabal and Ferran aim for the official position
Luis de la Fuente has shaped Spain's squad for their 2026 World Cup debut, with Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres expected to start.
Luis de la Fuente has determined the lineup that Spain will use in their opening match at the 2026 World Cup against Cape Verde. The coach decided to keep many players in the squad that have brought stability and good results in recent times, but the poor physical situation of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams will force him to adjust the attack. According to Marca, both players are recovering and will probably be ready for the match, but they will most likely start from the bench.
Mikel Oyarzabal is a name that will definitely be in the starting lineup. The Real Sociedad striker has won the coach's trust thanks to his stable performance and impressive scoring ability, with 12 goals in his last 11 appearances. Therefore, he will be the fulcrum in La Roja's attack in the opening match.
Ferran Torres is also likely to start. The Barcelona player had a positive season and showed good form during his preparations, taking advantage of every opportunity to prove himself. Although initially considered a backup for Oyarzabal, all signs point to him taking up a position on the right wing, a position he played very well in friendlies against Iraq and Peru.
The competition is still going on between Olmo and Baena for the position on the left. Atletico Madrid's Dani Olmo has an advantage thanks to his natural characteristics, but Olmo is trusted by coach Luis de la Fuente, along with his international experience and ability to play flexibly in many positions in attack. The player from Terrassa has proven his ability even when playing on the left, as in the Euro quarter-final against Germany.
Barring a last-minute change, the defense against Unai Simón will consist of Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Laporte and Cucurella, while Rodri, Pedri and Fabián Ruiz will take up midfield roles. In attack, Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres are almost certain to be present, while the final seat will be reserved for one of two players Dani Olmo or Álex Baena.
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