Coach selects World Cup squad without Real Madrid players

For the first time ever, Spain's World Cup squad will feature no players from the renowned Real Madrid club. Coach Luis de la Fuente announced his final selection on Monday, omitting Real Madrid's Dean Huijsen, Fran García, and Gonzalo García, who were part of the preliminary squad.

This decision is particularly notable given Real Madrid's stature in global football. The exclusion extends to Dani Carvajal, a regular in the national team, who has been hampered by injuries throughout the current season. His absence further emphasizes the shift in representation for the Spanish national team.

In stark contrast, FC Barcelona dominates the squad with eight players. The Catalan club is represented by Joan García, Eric García, Pau Cubarsí, Dani Olmo, Pedri, Gavi, Ferran Torres, and Lamine Yamal. However, the young winger Yamal's participation is uncertain due to a thigh injury sustained in late April, potentially impacting his availability for Spain's opening matches.

Other notable inclusions include Mikel Merino from Arsenal, who recently returned from a foot injury and played in a Premier League match over the weekend. The squad selection signals a new direction for the Spanish national team as they prepare for the World Cup.