World Cup 2026: Luis De la Fuente torn over Nico Williams decision ahead of France, Spain semi-final

Luis de la Fuente is weighing up whether to hand Nico Williams his first start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup when Spain face France in a mouth-watering semi-final clash on July 14.

The Spain head coach has a selection decision to make on the left side of his attack, with Williams’ return to full fitness providing a fresh option ahead of a meeting with Didier Deschamps’ high-flying France side.

Spain have reached the last four after securing consecutive knockout victories against Portugal and Belgium, with Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino emerging as the unlikely hero on both occasions. The midfielder came off the bench to score decisive late goals, but he is still expected to begin the semi-final among the substitutes.

De la Fuente is instead set to restore his strongest XI as Spain aim to overcome a France team that has impressed throughout the tournament.

Pedri set for Belgium absence to be reversed

One of the expected changes comes in midfield, where Barcelona star Pedri is likely to return to the starting line-up after being rested from the beginning against Belgium.

Fabian Ruiz took advantage of Pedri’s absence by opening the scoring in Spain’s quarter-final victory in Los Angeles, but De la Fuente is expected to bring back his key playmaker for the semi-final battle.

At the back, Spain’s defensive structure appears settled, with Pedro Porro continuing to hold his place ahead of Marcos Llorente at right-back.

Porro has moved ahead of Llorente in De la Fuente’s plans and has started Spain’s last three matches, with the coach expected to keep faith with the same defensive unit against France.

Williams return creates attacking debate

The biggest question facing De la Fuente centres around the left wing, where Alex Baena has performed effectively after being adapted into the role.

Baena has started Spain’s last five matches at the tournament and has provided energy and creativity, but he has not completed a full 90 minutes in any of those appearances.

Ferran Torres replaced him after 55 minutes in the win over Belgium, while Williams’ availability has now added another dimension to Spain’s attacking options.

The Athletic Club forward offers the natural width and direct running that could prove valuable against France, especially with Jules Kounde expected to provide attacking support from right-back.

A more aggressive wide threat could help Spain exploit spaces behind France’s defensive line, but De la Fuente must decide whether Williams is ready to make his first start of the tournament.

Euro 2024 memories could influence decision

Williams has not started a match at the 2026 World Cup so far, but his record in Spain’s successful Euro 2024 campaign could strengthen his case.

The winger started all four knockout matches during Spain’s run to the European title and played a decisive role in the final victory over England, scoring the opening goal in the 2-1 triumph.

Despite his limited involvement in this tournament, Williams remains one of Spain’s most dangerous attacking outlets because of his pace, one-on-one ability and capacity to stretch opposing defences.

De la Fuente must now decide whether to trust Baena’s recent consistency or unleash Williams from the start as Spain look to book their place in another major tournament final.