Muñoz, Merino train at reduced pace ahead of Spain's next World Cup match

The Spanish national team resumed training following a day off, with preparations focused on their upcoming World Cup match against Saudi Arabia. However, midfielders Víctor Muñoz and Mikel Merino worked at a slower pace than their teammates during the session held at the Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the team's base camp.

Muñoz has yet to debut in the World Cup due to a persistent muscle injury sustained at the end of the season. His availability for the next game remains in doubt. Merino, meanwhile, participated in his second consecutive training session at a reduced intensity. He played the last 20 minutes of the match against Cape Verde, marking his second official appearance since returning from a four-month layoff due to a foot injury.

Merino's previous match was his first significant game time since his injury, and he also missed the training session on Tuesday. Despite these recent training concerns, he is expected to be available for selection against Saudi Arabia, contingent on his progress in the remaining training sessions. Spain's performance in their opening match, a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde, makes the upcoming game crucial for their progression in the tournament.