Spain to Give Lamine Yamal World Cup Debut Off the Bench Against Cape Verde
Spain will introduce the Barcelona forward from the bench in Monday’s Group H match. Manager Luis de la Fuente confirmed the plan after Yamal missed the end of last season with injury.
ForbesSpain will give Lamine Yamal 15 to 20 minutes of playing time in its World Cup opener against Cape Verde on Monday, June 10, 2026, but will not start the forward, according to SPORT. National team manager Luis de la Fuente made the decision after Yamal returned from an injury that ended his 2025/2026 season with FC Barcelona.
Yamal came off at halftime during a 1-0 win over Celta Vigo in April 2026 and has not played a competitive match since.
Yamal was not ready for Spain’s two warm-up friendlies against Iraq and Peru. Forbes reported that he has not trained at 100 percent intensity and that there is an increased risk of relapse with injuries of his type. His minutes are scheduled to rise in Spain’s second group match against Saudi Arabia on June 21.
If he progresses without setback, he could start the June 26 group finale against Uruguay in Guadalajara. Ronald Araujo plays for Uruguay. Cape Verde has never appeared at a FIFA World Cup. FC Barcelona is concerned by de la Fuente’s comments.
The club aims for a third consecutive La Liga title and a Champions League win in the 2026/2027 season, and it wants Yamal’s return managed to avoid further absence. Spain is considered one of the favorites for the 2026 World Cup.
