NEWYou can now listen to Pakinomist articles!
Spain have received a significant fitness boost ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams returning to full training.
The dynamic duo had been in doubt for the tournament opener, but their presence at the team’s base camp suggests they are ready for the big stage.
Red Fury duo back in action
Yamal and Williams returned to full training with Spain at the team’s base camp in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on Thursday. The news comes as a huge relief to head coach Luis de la Fuente, who has been sweating over the fitness of his two most explosive wide players just days before the tournament begins.
Yamal, Williams and Victor Munoz had all missed the final warm-up friendly against Peru on Monday due to injuries. While the rest of the squad traveled to that match, the trio remained at the team’s training base to undergo intensive rehabilitation programs to ensure they could go into the tournament properly prepared.
Yamal overcomes hamstring problems
There was particular concern over Barcelona star Yamal, who has not played a competitive game since April 22 due to an injured left hamstring. The 18-year-old is considered a vital component of Spain’s attacking philosophy and his prolonged absence had sparked fears he could miss the group stage altogether.
But now the outlook is much more positive. The Spain coach said last week he expects Yamal to be “ready to play” in Spain’s opening World Cup game, although he admitted the Barcelona winger’s involvement could be limited to “just a few minutes”. Even a cameo appearance would be welcomed by the Spanish faithful as they look to build momentum early on.
Team morale increases
The star pair’s return was greeted with high spirits in camp as the European champions completed their preparations. Teammates celebrated Yamal and Williams’ recovery by inviting them to run the gauntlet at the start of Thursday’s practice session. The upbeat mood continued when goalkeeper Unai Simon joined the pair to celebrate his birthday.
With Yamal and Williams back in the fold, Spain can now focus on the tactical nuances required for their Group H campaign. The mix of youth and experience in the squad has made them one of the pre-tournament favorites and having their full complement of attacking talent at their disposal strengthens that claim significantly.
The road to World Cup glory
The European champions face Cabo Verde in Atlanta on June 15 as they begin their quest for a second World Cup title. It’s a game that Spain are expected to win, but the presence of Williams and Yamal adds a layer of unpredictability that Cape Verde’s defense will struggle to contain.
The road through the group stage will not be without challenges. After Cabo Verde, Spain will face Saudi Arabia on June 21 in Atlanta and Uruguay on June 26 in Guadalajara, Mexico. De la Fuente will be hoping that both Yamal and Williams can use the opening match to find their rhythm ahead of the high-stakes clash against the South Americans.
