Spain have received a major fitness boost ahead of their 2026 World Cup opener, as Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams have returned to full training. The two dynamic wingers, who were previously doubtful for the group stage clash with Cape Verde, are now back in action at the team’s base camp, signalling their readiness for the global tournament.

Spain’s key wingers return to action

Yamal and Williams resumed full training with the national team at their base camp in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on Thursday. This update brings immense relief for head coach Luis de la Fuente, who had been closely monitoring the fitness of his two most exciting attacking options just days before the tournament begins.

The pair, along with Victor Munoz, had missed Spain’s final warm-up match against Peru on Monday due to injuries. While the rest of the squad travelled for that friendly, Yamal, Williams and Munoz stayed behind to continue their intensive recovery sessions in order to be fully fit for the World Cup.

Yamal working past hamstring issues

There had been particular concern around Barcelona youngster Yamal, who had not featured in a competitive fixture since April 22 due to a left hamstring injury. The 18-year-old is seen as a crucial part of Spain’s attacking setup, and his absence had raised fears that he might miss the early stages of the tournament.

However, the situation now looks far more encouraging. Coach Luis de la Fuente mentioned last week that he expects Yamal to be “ready to play” in Spain’s opening World Cup game, though he noted that the winger’s game time might be limited to “just a few minutes.” Even a short cameo would be welcomed by fans hoping to see Spain start strong in their campaign.

Positive vibes in the camp

The return of Yamal and Williams lifted spirits in the Spanish camp as the team completed their final preparations. Team-mates celebrated their recovery by welcoming the duo with a light-hearted initiation run at the start of Thursday’s session. The cheerful atmosphere continued as goalkeeper Unai Simon joined in the celebrations on his birthday.

With both wingers back, Spain can now concentrate on refining their tactics for the Group H fixtures. The combination of youthful energy and veteran experience in the squad has made Spain one of the favourites to go deep into the tournament, and having their full attacking lineup available only bolsters that status.

Spain’s World Cup journey begins

Spain will open their World Cup campaign against Cape Verde in Atlanta on June 15 as they aim for their second world title. The European giants are expected to dominate the match, and with Yamal and Williams back, their unpredictable attacking style could pose serious problems for Cape Verde’s defence.

The group stage journey, however, will present challenges. After their opener, Spain will face Saudi Arabia on June 21 in Atlanta, followed by Uruguay on June 26 in Guadalajara, Mexico. Coach de la Fuente will be hoping that Yamal and Williams can use the first match to gain rhythm and confidence as Spain target a place in the knockout stages.

The question now is – how far can Spain go in the 2026 World Cup?