Luis de la Fuente has named a 26-man Spain squad for the September and October international window. The head coach has kept faith with the core group that won the 2026 FIFA World Cup, introducing forward Roberto Fernández and goalkeeper Josep Martínez as the new faces.
La Roja return to action after their global triumph in the United States, where they defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final. Their first test comes on 26 September against England in the UEFA Nations League. They then travel to face Czechia on 29 September, before rounding off the break at home to Croatia on 6 October.
New faces in the squad
The most notable inclusion is Deportivo de La Coruña forward Roberto Fernández. "Roberto is a player we've been keeping a very close eye on, and now is his moment. He has six goals," De la Fuente explained at the squad announcement press conference. The manager also confirmed the recall of Genoa goalkeeper Josep Martínez, replacing the injured Joan García. "Joan is injured, so Josep comes in in his place. He's already an international and a fantastic goalkeeper," he added.
The remainder of the selection shows continuity. David Raya and Unai Simón retain their places as goalkeepers. The defence features regulars like Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella, Alejandro Grimaldo and Pedro Porro. In midfield, pillars Rodri, Pedri, Fabián Ruiz and Mikel Merino all remain. The attack is led by Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Ferran Torres, who cemented his status with an excellent World Cup.
The champion's mentality
De la Fuente conveyed the squad's undiminished ambition. He revealed that minutes after winning the World Cup, a player asked him what was left to win. "I told him: 'England in September'." "This team wants to keep improving and wants to keep winning competitions and titles," the manager stated, making clear the competitive mentality he wants for this new chapter.
With this squad, Spain begin their first official matches as world champions, aiming to maintain their momentum in the Nations League. The squad will meet next Monday at the Football City in Las Rozas.
