Spain coach Luis de la Fuente names Lamine Yamal as captain-style headline pick for the 2026 World Cup squad announced on Monday. Multiple outlets report that Yamal is included despite recent injury concerns, reflecting the coach’s decision to keep the teenage forward in the final group. The squad also features a recall of Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino after he returns from injury. Gavi is likewise recalled following an injury layoff, according to France 24. Sources agree that de la Fuente excludes Real Madrid players from the World Cup squad for the first time in Spain’s World Cup history, with Dean Huijsen and veteran Dani Carvajal among those left out. While one report focuses on the Yamal-led squad and Merino’s return, another emphasizes the unprecedented absence of Real Madrid talent. Overall, the announced selection combines Yamal’s inclusion, the return of Merino (and Gavi), and an unusual break from prior World Cup squads by omitting players from Real Madrid.