With their squad now confirmed, Spain turn their attention to pre-tournament friendlies against Iraq and Peru. La Roja's goal for the 2026 tournament is to replicate the legendary success of the 2010 era and bring home the trophy. Despite the pressure of the occasion, De la Fuente remains confident that his side should be considered among the elite contenders this summer.
“We have to be cautious, despite being favourites," the 64-year-old said. "We have to go with our feet on the ground. I don’t shy away, we are favourites, but we’re equally as favourites as England or France.”
With a fit-again Gavi providing his trademark intensity in the middle of the park, La Roja certainly possess the bite needed to navigate a difficult Group H containing Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and debutants Cape Verde.