League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Injuries

Spain considers Lamine Yamal for starting role against Saudi Arabia

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 4:04 PM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Spain considers Lamine Yamal for starting role against Saudi Arabia

Summary

Spain is contemplating starting Lamine Yamal in their FIFA World Cup match against Saudi Arabia on June 18, 2026. Following a 0-0 draw with Cape Verde, coach Luis de la Fuente is expected to make changes, and medical staff believe Yamal is fit to play 45 minutes despite potential risks of relapse. The Barcelona forward previously came off the bench for 17 minutes in the match against Cape Verde, where he showed promise upon returning from injury. Other players, including Dani Olmo and Alex Baena, are also in contention for the starting XI.

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Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Lamine Yamal showed promise in his return from injury.
•Spain drew 0-0 against Cape Verde in their tournament opener.
•Coach Luis de la Fuente is likely to alter the lineup.
•Medical staff think Yamal can contribute for 45 minutes.
•Other potential starters include Dani Olmo and Alex Baena.

Latest Updates

11:56 PMYahoo Sports — De la Fuente hints that Yamal could start match against Saudi Arabia
4:04 PMYahoo Sports — Will Lamine Yamal start against Saudi Arabia? Spain think Barcelona star ready to play 45 minutes

What they're saying

"
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente initially didn't want to say whether Lamine Yamal would against Saudi Arabia, but eventually hinted that the 18-year-old talent might be in the starting line-up for the second group stage match at the World Cup. "We're seeing the real Lamine Yamal, his finesse.
— Yahoo Sports