Spain news

Concrete evidence and accusations from the Reds star paint a picture of a forced exit

GOAL breaks down all the confirmed qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, plus the teams who could soon be on their way.

Which goalkeepers have won the FIFA World Cup Golden Glove award across the history of the competition? The award was introduced for the 1994 tournament, meaning plenty of iconic goalkeepers, including the likes of Gordon Banks and the initially eponymous Lev Yashin, missed out on the individual award. GOAL has everything you need to know about the award handed to the standout stopper at any single tournament.

Ex-Arsenal and Spain star Santi Cazorla has explained why he prefers Pedri to Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal. The two-time European Championship winner admits to having a “huge crush” on Barca’s classy midfielder. He is also a big fan of Yamal, who continues to wow global audiences, but will always side with ball players over goal scorers.

Ronald Araujo admits that Uruguay may require divine intervention when facing Lamine Yamal and Spain at the 2026 World Cup, telling his international colleagues: “If they know how to pray, they better.” Araujo knows all about the threat that the teenage wonderkid will pose when they lock horns on the grandest of stages at a major tournament this summer.

Lamine Yamal continues to rewrite the record books for both club and country, but Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente believes the 18-year-old is only scratching the surface of his potential. Speaking ahead of the friendly against Egypt at the RCDE Stadium, the manager reflected on the incredible trajectory the winger has taken since his senior debut.

Gary Lineker has identified the two nations he believes are ahead of England in the pecking order to win the upcoming World Cup. Despite the optimism surrounding Thomas Tuchel’s appointment, the legendary striker insists that the Three Lions remain behind the world's elite in terms of tournament readiness. While England boast a star-studded squad, Lineker suggests that historical consistency and tactical maturity give their rivals a significant edge.

Barcelona have reportedly received reassurances regarding the fitness and management of Lamine Yamal following productive talks with the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). With Raphinha now sidelined through injury after a blow with Brazil, the Catalan giants were growing increasingly anxious about another potential setback for Yamal during the international break.

Arsenal's international break has gone from bad to worse, with Martin Zubimendi becoming their tenth first-team star to pull out of international duty. The Spain midfielder has returned to Emirates Stadium after the RFEF confirmed he would play no part in their upcoming friendly fixture against Egypt.

The tug-of-war between Spain and Morocco for one of the world's brightest dual-national talents has reached a new chapter. Real Madrid's rising star Thiago Pitarch has seemingly ended the speculation surrounding his international allegiance, sending a definitive message to both federations.

Our expert offers his best Spain vs Serbia Predictions, Lineups, Odds & Tips for this international friendly in Villarreal this evening (27/03/2026)

The World Cup is now just two-and-a-half months away, with teams currently making their final preparations for the finals, while others look to book the final few spots in North America during the March international break. Once the tournament does eventually get under way, the stage will be set for a whole host of players to make themselves national heroes, including some of the most exciting youngsters in the game today.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has moved to quell concerns regarding the fractured relationship between Lamine Yamal and Dani Carvajal. The Barcelona wonderkid and Real Madrid captain were involved in a heated confrontation following October's feisty El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu. Despite the domestic animosity, the national team boss insists that international duty transcends club rivalries as La Roja prepare for upcoming fixtures.