Spain selects World Cup squad with no Real Madrid players

For the first time in its 16 World Cup participations, Spain’s national team announced a 2026 squad that includes no players from Real Madrid. The omission highlights criticism of the club’s recent reliance on star signings over its historic youth academy, the "Fábrica," and marks a shift compared with Barcelona’s continued promotion of home‑grown talent.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente addressed the controversy in a press briefing, stating, "I don’t look at where each player comes from, I only look at whether he can play with us," and emphasized that selections were based solely on form and fitness. He added that club affiliation should not influence national‑team choices. The decision underscores a move toward prioritising collective dynamics over club prestige in the Spanish side ahead of the World Cup.