Image Credits: Imago Images
When Liverpool hijacked Newcastle United’s move for Victor Munoz last Thursday, completing a deal worth a reported £34.5 million, the celebrations at Anfield were brief.
Within hours, the Spanish FA confirmed the 22-year-old had suffered a fresh muscle injury, throwing his entire World Cup involvement into serious doubt.
The timing could not have been more cruel.
Munoz had already been managing fitness concerns before the tournament, missing Spain’s pre-tournament friendlies and remaining unused in their opening group game, a goalless draw against Cape Verde.
A setback in his individual recovery programme then prompted Spanish outlet Cadena SER to suggest he was expected to miss the group stage entirely and may only return if Spain reach the knockout rounds.
Yet something has shifted.
Despite all the pessimism surrounding his fitness, Munoz was named among the substitutes for Spain’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia on Sunday, suggesting his recovery is progressing ahead of schedule.
He did not enter the pitch, but his presence in the squad is significant in itself.
Just days ago, his involvement at this tournament looked over before it had truly begun.
Munoz signed a six-year contract at Anfield, becoming the first new signing of the Andoni Iraola era after Liverpool hijacked Newcastle United’s move for the Spain winger.
Newcastle had believed a deal was agreed, leaving the club shocked and frustrated to see a major transfer fall through.
The Osasuna winger arrived on Merseyside with considerable credentials.
He is seen as one of Spain’s primary rising talents, with the ability to operate as a viable alternative to Nico Williams on the left side.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente spoke glowingly of him at the squad announcement, saying he brings quickness, intensity, and a change of pace, adding that he can even play on the inside.
His mere presence in the matchday squad against Saudi Arabia hints that Munoz could be available for Spain’s final group game against Uruguay on 26 June in Guadalajara.
That would be a timely return, both for La Roja and for Liverpool supporters eager to get their first proper glimpse of the club’s latest acquisition in competitive action.
Liverpool have not signed him simply for one World Cup or one pre-season.
They have bought potential, value and a profile.
With Hugo Ekitike not expected to return until early 2027 after his ACL injury in April, getting Munoz fit and firing before next season becomes all the more important for Iraola’s squad depth.
For now, the bench appearance is a quiet but meaningful update.
The injury scare appears to be easing.
A World Cup debut could still be on the cards.