Spain's De la Fuente says Lamine Yamal's status for Saudi Arabia match remains under review

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said the technical staff is closely monitoring Lamine Yamal's physical condition ahead of the side's second Group H match against Saudi Arabia at the 2026 World Cup, with a final decision on his availability to follow the assessments. Speaking before the fixture at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, De la Fuente said the Barcelona forward could be incorporated into a gradual plan lasting roughly 45 minutes, adding that the staff is following a sustainable preparation program and is cautious about any physical risk. De la Fuente said avoiding an uneven workload for Yamal during the group stage would allow the player to be deployed more effectively in the tournament's knockout rounds. The match forms part of the second matchday in Group H. Saudi Arabia and Uruguay each opened their tournament accounts with a 1-1 draw, while Spain played Cape Verde to a goalless result. All four teams in the group sit on one point, with Saudi Arabia and Uruguay ahead of Spain and Cape Verde on goal difference.