Luis de la Fuente, the Spain national team manager, has confirmed that Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are not yet ready to play 90 minutes in the upcoming match against Saudi Arabia, according to a statement shared with a Spanish media outlet. The coach also strongly defended Rodri, calling any doubts about the midfielder’s performance “insulting” and emphasizing his status as the “best player in the world.”
The comments come amid ongoing discussions about Spain’s squad selection, with de la Fuente addressing concerns about including three players—Yamal, Nico Williams, and Víctor Muñoz—who are still recovering from injuries. “It’s a bit of a reminder of the past,” he said, referencing Dani Olmo’s inclusion during Euro 2020 despite a serious sole injury. Olmo went on to become the tournament’s top scorer and played a pivotal role in Spain’s run to the final.
Why Are Spain’s Key Players Not Ready for 90 Minutes?
De la Fuente clarified that Yamal and Williams, both young talents, are not yet at full match fitness. “They’re not ready to play 90 minutes yet,” he said. “We’ll evaluate whether it’s better for them to start the game or come on later.” Yamal, 17, has been a standout for Barcelona this season, while Williams, 22, has shown promise for Athletic Club. Both players have been gradually returning to training, but their fitness remains a priority ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
Nico Williams, who recently returned from a hamstring issue, faces a similar situation. “He’s not ready for 90 minutes either,” de la Fuente said. “It’s not that he’s worse than Lamine—different timelines. We’re coordinating closely with the medical team to ensure they’re ready when needed.”
Víctor Muñoz, the Valencia defender, is also being treated with caution. “His progress is positive, but he’s still struggling a bit,” the coach added. “We’ll be prudent and avoid risking him in this match.”
How Does De La Fuente Justify Including Injured Players?
The manager acknowledged criticism for selecting players in recovery but drew a parallel to Euro 2020, when Dani Olmo was included despite a severe sole injury. “No one questioned that decision at the time,” de la Fuente said. “Olmo recovered, became the top scorer, and played a key role in the final. People don’t remember that now, but it’s a reminder of how these situations can turn out.”
This approach aligns with Spain’s long-standing strategy of balancing short-term needs with long-term development. The national team often prioritizes player health, especially with major tournaments on the horizon. De la Fuente’s comments suggest a cautious but confident plan to integrate young talent without compromising results.
What About Rodri’s Performance? Why Is the Coach So Defensive?
De la Fuente’s most emphatic remarks were reserved for Rodri, the Manchester City midfielder who won the 2024 Ballon d’Or. When asked if Rodri was at his pre-injury level, the coach responded sharply: “To question Rodrigo’s performance is insulting. He’s the best player in the world. I don’t know if anyone would dare to criticize other top players with the same level of scrutiny.”
Rodri, 27, has been a cornerstone of Spain’s midfield, known for his composure and leadership. His recent return from a knee injury has raised concerns, but de la Fuente emphasized his continued dominance. “Even when not 100%, Rodrigo is superior to the majority of players in his position,” he said. “We have another top player in Martín Zubimendi, but I’m embarrassed that anyone would question Rodrigo.”
The coach also highlighted Rodri’s growth, noting that “each match helps him develop. His presence is crucial for the team’s hierarchy.”
What Does This Mean for Spain’s World Cup Plans?
The decisions to manage Yamal, Williams, and Rodri’s fitness reflect Spain’s approach to the 2026 World Cup. With the tournament still over a year away, the team is focusing on building depth while ensuring key players are ready for the biggest stage. De la Fuente’s comments suggest a strategic balance between showcasing young talent and maintaining stability in the squad.
The upcoming match against Saudi Arabia on September 5 in Madrid will serve as a test for Spain’s rotation policy. While Yamal and Williams may not start, their inclusion in the squad signals confidence in their potential. Meanwhile, Rodri’s continued presence underscores his importance to the team’s identity.
What Are the Implications for the Squad’s Tactical Setup?
With Yamal and Williams likely to come off the bench, Spain’s manager may lean on established players like Rodri, Koke, and Pedri to control midfield. The tactical flexibility could also allow for creative setups, particularly if Yamal is introduced in the second half to exploit defensive weaknesses.
Defensively, the absence of Víctor Muñoz means Spain may rely on central defenders like Aymeric Laporte or Eric García. De la Fuente’s emphasis on medical coordination suggests the team is prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains, a philosophy that has paid dividends in previous tournaments.
What’s Next for Spain’s National Team?
The next confirmed action for Spain is the World Cup qualifier against Saudi Arabia on September 5. The match will be held at the Estadio Metropolitano in Madrid, with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 PM local time (UTC+2). Following this, Spain will face Albania on September 8, with both games critical for securing a top spot in Group I.
De la Fuente’s comments indicate a focus on managing player workloads ahead of the 2026 World Cup. As the team navigates the early stages of qualification, the balance between developing young stars and maintaining consistency will be a key storyline.
For fans, the coming weeks will offer a glimpse into Spain’s future. While immediate results matter, the long-term vision under de la Fuente remains clear: to
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