World Cup 2026: Lamine Yamal in perfect condition – Spain coach Luis de la Fuente

Spain have received a timely lift ahead of their World Cup 2026 opener, with head coach Luis de la Fuente confirming that Lamine Yamal is fully fit and ready to feature.

The Barcelona teenager, one of the most closely watched talents at the tournament, is expected to play a central role as Spain begin their Group H campaign against debutants Cape Verde in Atlanta on Monday.

Yamal had been a major doubt after a hamstring problem curtailed his club season, but Spain now believe their brightest attacking hope is in peak condition.

De la Fuente reassures over injury concerns

Speaking ahead of the fixture, De la Fuente moved to calm any lingering fears over the fitness of his young star and teammate Nico Williams.

“The good news is that Lamine is in perfect condition,” he said. “He’s arrived at this point in the state in which we wanted him to be.

“He’s fine, just like Nico (Williams) and Victor (Muñoz). They’re all available, although some won’t play the entire game.”

Both Yamal and Williams were absent from Spain’s warm-up matches against Iraq and Peru, but their return to full training over the past week has underlined their readiness for the global stage.

Spain’s new attacking generation takes centre stage

Yamal’s return is particularly significant given his breakout season with Barcelona, where he registered 24 goals and 18 assists in the 2025 to 26 campaign.

At just 18, he arrives at his first World Cup carrying huge expectations, but also momentum that has made him one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards.

Alongside Williams, Spain are now able to field a refreshed and dynamic attacking unit as they target an ideal start in a group that also includes Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

Cape Verde challenge awaits in Atlanta

Spain open their campaign against Cape Verde, who are making their first appearance at a World Cup finals as an independent nation.

Ranked 67th in the world, the debutants enter the contest as clear underdogs against a Spanish side widely expected to secure all three points.

For De la Fuente’s team, the priority will be setting the tone early, with Yamal’s fitness providing a significant boost to their ambitions of a deep tournament run.