Key Takeaways:
- Spain have announced a 26-man squad for decisive World Cup qualifiers against Georgia on 15 November and Turkey on 18 November
- Lamine Yamal, Dean Huijsen, Fabián Ruiz, Fermín López, Dani Olmo, and Pablo Fornals have returned after missing the previous fixtures
- Robin Le Normand, Pedri, Jesús Rodríguez, Jorge de Frutos, Dani Carvajal, Rodri, Gavi, Nico Williams, and Álvaro Morata are all absent from the squad
Squad Selection and Notable Returns
Luis de la Fuente, head coach of reigning European champions Spain, has named his 26-man squad for the crucial upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey. These fixtures, scheduled for 15 and 18 November, respectively, are vital as Spain look to secure direct qualification.
While the selections bring no major surprises, several important changes have been made in comparison to the group that recorded victories against Georgia (2-0 at home) and Bulgaria (4-0) in October. Defender Dean Huijsen, midfielders Fabián Ruiz, Fermín López, Dani Olmo, and winger Lamine Yamal all return following their absences through injury. Additionally, Pablo Fornals re-joins the national team squad for the first time in four years.
𝗪𝗲 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝗱.
Red for passion, red for Spain.Here’s Luis de la Fuente’s squad list.👇#VamosEspaña | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/vEfDxvwIXW
— Spanish Football (@SpainIsFootball) November 7, 2025
Key Absentees Through Injury and Selection
Several players, however, have not made the squad. Defender Robin Le Normand and midfielder Pedri are missing due to injury. Wingers Jesús Rodríguez and Jorge de Frutos are also absent. Luis de la Fuente has again been unable to call upon right back Dani Carvajal, midfielders Rodri and Gavi, and winger Nico Williams owing to ongoing fitness issues. Former captain Álvaro Morata is omitted from the squad, though not due to injury.
Looking Ahead to Decisive Fixtures
With a blend of experienced internationals and fresh faces returning from injury, Spain will approach the upcoming matches against Georgia and Turkey determined to secure their place at the 2026 World Cup. Luis de la Fuente will be aiming to build on recent momentum and navigate key absences as La Furia Roja prepare for a critical international window.
