Kathmandu: Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has confirmed that teenage star Lamine Yamal is in “perfect condition” and will feature in FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Cape Verde on Monday.

The Barcelona winger missed the end of the 2025-26 season after suffering a hamstring injury in April but has successfully recovered in time for the tournament. His availability boosts Spain’s attacking options as they look to build on their UEFA European Championship triumph from two years ago in Germany.

De la Fuente told reporters: “The good news is that Lamine is in perfect condition. He’s arrived at this point in the state in which we wanted him to be.”

The coach added that Yamal along with Nico Williams and Victor Munoz are all available, though minutes will be carefully managed. “The doctors say Lamine can play tomorrow without any issues. Not to play 90 minutes but to play some minutes, yes.”

Spain are aiming to become only the fourth nation to hold both the European and World Cup titles. However, they must overcome a disappointing recent World Cup record: after winning the trophy in 2010, they suffered a group stage exit followed by back to back last16 defeats on penalties.

Despite being installed as favourites by Opta’s supercomputer, La Roja have won just one of their last six World Cup matches a 7-0 thrashing of Costa Rica in 2022.

De la Fuente also dismissed concerns over defender Marc Cucurella amid reports linking him with a move from Chelsea to Real Madrid. “He’s one of the best left-backs in the world without doubt,” the coach said praising his commitment to the national team.
With Yamal available and the squad in good shape, Spain will hope to make a strong start in their quest for a second World Cup crown.