The 2026 Spain World Cup squad has now been finalised as Luis De La Fuente cut his preliminary group of 55 down to a 26-man group he is taking to the US, Canada, and Mexico for the tournament. With that, we are able to discuss some of the more head-scratching decisions made by the Euros-winning manager as he left some big talents at home.
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Spain World Cup Squad 2026 – The 4 Biggest Absentees
Dean Huijsen
A move to Real Madrid seemed like a dream for the former Juventus man but it hasn’t gone to plan after a stellar breakout campaign in the Premier League. The centre back has just seven caps for Spain and won’t build on it despite making 40 appearances for Los Blancos. His form hasn’t been ideal but his passing ability and physicality could have made him a useful option in the back line.
Robin Le Normand
Times change quickly for some, Robin Le Normand was a key part of the Spanish squad in 2024 into 2025, playing regularly in the Euros winning campaign and the Nations League final run. He now finds himself out in the cold after missing some qualifiers with injury, he has since not been able to get back into the reduced squads and has been left home for the World Cup. It is a stark change for the Atletico Madrid man who was once one of De La Fuente’s better options in the centre of the back line.
Dani Carvajal
The Real Madrid full back is a veteran winner who has over 50 caps for his country. His absence from the squad marks what could have been a last chance to play at a major tournament for his country and came after he made just 23 appearances all season at club level. Now set to leave his team on a free contract and not in his country’s plans, he finds himself on the outside looking in at 34.
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Samu Aghegawa
In one of the more interesting choices, the manager has opted not to bring his nation’s brightest striking talents in favour of some trusted names. This is a risky move however, as Samu Aghegawa had a strong year at club level with Porto that saw him score 20 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions. The 22-year-old now has a strong track record of 18 strikes in 36 for Recre Granada and netting 47 times in 77 matches for Porto.
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IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire
