World Cup 2026: Optimism growing over Lamine Yamal start against Saudi Arabia

Spain could receive a major boost ahead of their crucial World Cup clash with Saudi Arabia, with growing confidence that teenage sensation Lamine Yamal will return to the starting lineup.

According to reports from COPE, optimism is increasing within the Spanish camp that the Barcelona star will be ready to start after making a promising return from injury during the goalless draw against Cape Verde.

Spain’s medical team had initially planned a cautious reintegration for the 18-year-old winger following his hamstring injury, limiting his minutes and gradually building his fitness throughout the tournament. However, Yamal’s sharp cameo appearance in the second half of the Cape Verde match appears to have accelerated discussions about a starting role.

The youngster reportedly looked lively during Spain’s recent day off in Nashville and carried that confidence into training sessions. His impact against Cape Verde was immediately noticeable, with his dribbling and creativity giving Spain a different attacking dimension after coming off the bench. Many observers felt La Roja became significantly more dangerous once he entered the game.

Despite the encouraging signs, Spain’s medical staff remain cautious. The injury that sidelined Yamal for much of the buildup to the tournament is still considered delicate, and there are concerns that rushing him back too quickly could increase the risk of a relapse. Reports indicate that doctors have advised a measured approach even as the player pushes for a larger role.

Head coach Luis de la Fuente is also expected to make tactical adjustments following Spain’s disappointing opening result. One of the biggest talking points from the Cape Verde match was the decision to deploy Gavi in a wider attacking role, an experiment that failed to produce the desired results. Yamal’s return would provide Spain with the natural winger they lacked during long periods of the contest.

The Barcelona prodigy is reportedly eager to start and believes he is physically ready for a bigger workload. However, Spain’s coaching staff are balancing the immediate need for victory against Saudi Arabia with the longer-term objective of having one of their most important players fully fit for the knockout rounds.

After being held to a surprise 0-0 draw by Cape Verde, Spain know they cannot afford another slip-up in Group H. A fit and firing Yamal could be exactly what they need as they look to kickstart their World Cup campaign and take a major step toward the knockout stages.