Luis de la Fuente is set to announce Spain’s first squad since their historic 2026 World Cup triumph, with the national team preparing for a demanding UEFA Nations League campaign. The head coach will unveil the roster on Friday, September 18, marking a symbolic moment as La Roja begin life with a second star above their crest. The squad will feature a blend of the generation that conquered the world and emerging talents eager to cement their legacy in Spanish football history.
Spain’s return to action follows a thrilling 1-0 victory over Argentina in the final, secured by a Ferran Torres goal. As they prepare to face England, Croatia, and the Czech Republic in an expanded international window, De la Fuente faces key decisions. Right back represents a significant area of uncertainty, opening the door for dynamic strikers Sergio Camello of Rayo Vallecano and Roberto Fernández of Espanyol to secure a spot in the attacking line. Both players have started the domestic campaign in electric form, scoring six goals each, and are prime candidates to claim the second center-forward position.
In defense, few surprises are expected as De la Fuente relies on his trusted core. Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella, and Alejandro Grimaldo are set to anchor the backline, providing stability and tactical cohesion. In midfield, there is potential for the return of Fermín López. The Barcelona midfielder missed the World Cup through injury but has begun the new season with impressive performances, demonstrating his readiness to re-integrate into the national team’s midfield engine room.
This squad represents the pinnacle of Spain’s successful generational transition, which began after their Euro 2024 victory and culminated in the 2026 World Cup title. Led by captain and Golden Ball winner Rodri, who showcased a fully recovered midfield maestro orchestrating Spain’s possession, the team boasts the fifth-youngest roster among the 48 World Cup squads. Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí started the final, joining an elite group of teenagers to win the ultimate prize, while Álex Baena etched his name into history alongside Lionel Messi and Ángel Di María by securing a third major title.
With Euro 2028 and a home World Cup on the horizon, Spain stands as a dominant force poised to become the most decorated national team in modern football. The integration of youth, coupled with the experience of veterans like Laporte and Rodri, provides a balanced foundation for sustained success. As La Roja embark on this Nations League journey, every match will serve as a crucial step in their quest to define an era.
