Lamine Yamal Returns to Spain Squad for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

Spain welcomed Lamine Yamal back into the national setup on Friday as Luis de la Fuente named his squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey. The return of the 18-year-old winger comes at an important moment, with Spain closing in on automatic qualification and sharpening their squad ahead of a decisive international window.

Yamal missed Spain’s previous World Cup 2026 Qualifiers due to a groin injury that kept him out of action for several weeks. The setback forced him to withdraw from last month’s fixtures against Georgia and Bulgaria. Spain now expects him to start or play meaningful minutes in Tbilisi on November 15 before the team travels to Seville for a home meeting with Turkey on November 18.

Yamal produced consistent performances for Barcelona before the injury and now returns and sits within touching distance of next year’s World Cup.

The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder, Ruiz, is also fully fit after suffering a leg injury in the Champions League win over Barcelona at the start of October. His return strengthens Spain’s midfield. 

Spain, however, will not be at full strength. Pedri continues his recovery from injury and will miss the two qualifiers. The midfielder’s absence remains a setback considering his influence in link-up play and Spain’s attacking rhythm. 

Dani Carvajal also remains sidelined. Nico Williams, who adds width and directness, is unavailable as well. Robin Le Normand completes the list of absentees, leaving Spain short of an experienced centre-back option.

Despite these gaps, Spain’s squad carries depth in every line. Aymeric Laporte anchors the defence, supported by emerging talents like Pau Cubarsí and Dean Huijsen. Their selection signals de la Fuente’s intent to blend experience with youth in a campaign that demands composure under pressure. 

Marcos Llorente and Pedro Porro offer versatility in wide defensive roles, while Marc Cucurella provides energy on the left.

In midfield, Spain’s options look varied. Zubimendi controls tempo, Merino supports transitions, and Aleix García links phases with intelligent movement. Pablo Barrios and Álex Baena bring freshness and intensity. Pablo Fornals rounds out a unit capable of dictating games, especially against teams that sit deep.

The attacking group carries a mix of skill, speed, and experience. Mikel Oyarzabal remains Spain’s most reliable forward in tight matches. Yeremy Pino and Dani Olmo add sharp movement between lines. Ferran Torres, who often delivers in the national shirt, gives Spain a direct threat when space opens. Young talents like Fermín López and Samu Aghehowa offer agility and pressing value, while Borja Iglesias brings a physical presence in the box.

Yamal’s return stands out in this mix. His dribbling, confidence, and ability to break defensive lines give Spain a creative spark that proved crucial in earlier qualifiers. His development at Barcelona continues to elevate his role within the national team, and de la Fuente’s trust suggests he may play a defining role in Spain’s run-in.

Spain leads Group E with momentum and a clear path toward qualification.