Key Takeaways:
- Last week, Dani Carvajal sustained a right foot injury during training
- Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has stated Carvajal must regain both fitness and form to be considered for the World Cup squad
- Spain will begin their World Cup campaign against Cape Verde on 15 June and are set to face Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in Group H
Manager’s Assessment and Carvajal’s Injury Status
Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, has indicated he has not excluded Dani Carvajal from his plans for the forthcoming World Cup, but has emphasised that the Real Madrid right back is required to demonstrate his fitness and match sharpness after picking up a right foot injury during training last week.
De la Fuente described Carvajal as “a very important figure in our dressing room,” and confirmed, “I actually spoke with him yesterday, so I’m aware of what’s going on. He doesn’t have a specific injury, nothing serious, but he needs time to get back to his usual level.”
The manager further commented, “We’ll see in the remaining matches whether he truly gets the opportunity and delivers the performances.”
🚨🗣️ Luis de la Fuente on Dani Carvajal: “We spoke yesterday. It's nothing serious. But he needs time to show his true potential. We'll see if he can prove it and if he gets the chance.
Just like when I brought him to the national team, he'll understand if I have to make the… pic.twitter.com/DbBXuRjhm1
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) May 6, 2026
Carvajal’s Recent Form and Selection Prospects
Dani Carvajal has been limited to just a single appearance for Spain in 2025, and De la Fuente stated that Carvajal would understand going unselected if not deemed fit for the final tournament squad. With Carvajal’s Real Madrid contract entering its final weeks and the veteran defender facing increased competition from Trent Alexander-Arnold, his playing time this season has been restricted.
Spain’s Group Stage Fixtures and World Cup Overview
The 2026 World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico between 11 June and 19 July. Spain are scheduled to play their Group H opener against Cape Verde on 15 June, with subsequent group stage matches against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
