Spain names 26-man World Cup 2026 squad, no Real Madrid players selected

Coach Luis de la Fuente announced Spain's 26‑man roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, confirming a historic first: none of the selected players belong to Real Madrid. Veteran defender Dani Carvajal was also omitted, surprising many fans.

The squad includes goalkeepers Unai Simón, David Raya and newcomer Joan García. Defenders feature Marc Cucurella, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsí, Eric García, Marcos Llorente, Pedro Porro and Marc Pubill. The midfield core consists of Pedri, Gavi, Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Martín Zubimendi, Alex Baena and Mikel Merino. Up front, Spain rely on young talents Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and experienced forwards Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres and Mikel Oyarzabal.

Barcelona supplies eight players, the most of any club, while Real Madrid provides none – a first in the national team's history. Spain, considered a strong contender, will face friendlies against Iraq and Mexico before group‑stage matches with Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.