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World Cup: Spain dealt winger setbacks, but Yamal ready for bigger role against Austria
01st July, 2026 04:28 PM
Spain will head into Thursday’s, July 2, 2026 World Cup 2026 round-of-32 encounter with Austria in Los Angeles missing two influential attackers, although the growing fitness of Lamine Yamal has handed coach Luis de la Fuente a timely boost.
Squad outlook
The Spanish squad picked up a couple of injury concerns during Friday’s physical final group-stage victory over Uruguay. Nico Williams sustained a groin problem after a forceful challenge from Nicolas de la Cruz, while Yeremy Pino injured his shoulder following another heavy tackle.
Medical assessments have revealed that neither issue is as severe as initially feared. Even so, both players are unavailable for the clash with Austria and could also miss a potential round-of-16 fixture should Spain advance, leaving De la Fuente short of experienced options on the wings.
There is, however, encouraging news in the form of Yamal, who continues to regain full sharpness after the hamstring injury that cut short his previous season. The young forward has steadily increased his playing time, featuring for 19 minutes against Cabo Verde, making a major impact during a 45-minute outing versus Saudi Arabia, and staying on the pitch for 76 minutes against Uruguay.
With Williams and Pino ruled out, Alex Baena is widely expected to take up the left-wing position after netting the decisive goal in the victory over Uruguay.
At the back, De la Fuente is likely to retain the defensive unit that has yet to allow a goal in the tournament. Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi are expected to continue in central defense, with Marcos Llorente and Marc Cucurella occupying the full-back roles ahead of dependable goalkeeper Unai Simon.
Midfield options
Spain’s midfield should once again be led by Pedri, Rodri Hernandez and Fabian Ruiz, while Mikel Merino, who is also nearing full fitness, remains an option from the bench.
Meanwhile, Victor Munoz is expected to be available despite recently battling a calf problem. The 22-year-old winger could provide extra speed and width if called upon during the match.
