**Lamine Yamal in Spain Squad But No Real Madrid Players**

Spain has announced its squad for the upcoming World Cup, notably including injured Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal while, for the first time in history, featuring no players from Real Madrid. The unprecedented exclusion of talent from the reigning European champions marks a significant shift in national team selection under coach Luis de la Fuente.

Eighteen-year-old Yamal, a prodigious talent, secures his spot despite tearing his left hamstring on April 22, an injury that sidelined him for the final month of Barcelona’s season. His inclusion signals strong faith from the coaching staff in his recovery and impact.

The absence of Real Madrid players is a historic development. Defenders Dean Huijsen and Dani Carvajal, among others, were not selected. This comes after Real Madrid finished their domestic season without winning a trophy, ending eight points behind La Liga champions Barcelona.

Coach Luis de la Fuente addressed potential criticisms regarding club bias, stating, "I don't look at one club or another. I don't have that local bias a fan might have. For me, it's more global. The only thing I want is for these footballers to feel proud of representing the national team." He also expressed confidence in the fitness of his selected players, asserting, "Barring any setbacks, we'll have everyone available from the very first match."

Other notable selections include Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, who has also been managing a hamstring issue. Midfielder Mikel Merino makes the squad after returning for Arsenal in their final Premier League game, following four months out with a stress fracture. The squad features seven Premier League players in total, including David Raya, Martin Zubimendi, Pedro Porro, Marc Cucurella, Rodri, and Yeremy Pino.

Defender Eric Garcia, who impressed at Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid’s Marc Pubill, who also enjoyed a strong season, are among those called up. The squad balances experienced players with emerging talents, reflecting a strategic focus on form and fitness over club affiliation. Missing out due to injury is Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez, who was ruled out last week with a broken foot.

The World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19. Spain is placed in Group H and will face debutants Cape Verde on June 15, Saudi Arabia on June 21, and Uruguay on June 26. De la Fuente underscored the national mood, stating, "Excitement is the key word. Passion. The reaction of people all over Spain – adults and children alike – is that they are fully behind the national team." The composition of this squad, particularly the historic Real Madrid snub and the faith in young, injured stars, will undoubtedly be a central talking point as the tournament approaches.