Spain To Ease Yamal Back Against Cape Verde, De la Fuente Confirms

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has confirmed that teenage star Lamine Yamal will not start today’s 2026 World Cup clash against Cape Verde, despite being fully fit again after injury.

The 18-year-old Barcelona winger has not played a competitive match since suffering a left hamstring injury on April 22. Although he has completed his recovery, Spain’s coaching staff are opting for a cautious return to action.

De la Fuente said Yamal had impressed in training and was available for selection, but would begin the match on the bench.

“The best news is that Lamine is in great shape, he has prepared very well and is training very well, just like Nico (Williams) and Víctor (Muñoz). He is available, even if he won’t start the match, we’ll see how the game unfolds,” said De la Fuente.

“He is ready to play today without any problem. Not for 90 minutes, but to come on at some point, he is in perfect condition to play a few minutes. If that weren’t the case, he wouldn’t even be on the bench.”

Yamal’s return is a significant boost for Spain as they continue their World Cup campaign, but De la Fuente made it clear that protecting the youngster from a relapse remains a priority.

The Spain boss also addressed growing expectations around his side’s chances of lifting the trophy, acknowledging that La Roja are among the favourites but rejecting suggestions that they stand alone as the team to beat.

According to De la Fuente, this year’s tournament features an unusually strong field, with several nations capable of going all the way, including France, Argentina and England.

“What does that mean in sports? It puts you among the potential contenders, but only one can win… I value it because it pays tribute to the exceptional journey of some players. I had never seen a World Cup with so many real contenders to win it,” he added.

Despite the competition, De la Fuente maintained his confidence in Spain’s squad, insisting that La Roja possess the “best midfield in the world”.