Spain were handed a brief injury scare ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after Lamine Yamal trained away from the main group during Thursday’s session in New Jersey. However, the Spanish Football Federation quickly played down concerns, insisting the teenage star is expected to be fit for Sunday’s blockbuster clash against Argentina.
Yamal and defender Pedro Porro were both put through individual recovery drills during Spain’s first training session after their 2-0 semi-final victory over France. While images of the pair working separately quickly sparked speculation online, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said there was no cause for alarm.
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Speaking to Reuters, the federation clarified that both players were following a precautionary workload management programme and are expected to be available when Spain bid for only their second FIFA World Cup title.
The individual session came after a physically demanding semi-final for Yamal, who spent much of the evening battling France full-backs Lucas Digne and Theo Hernandez. Although Spain coach Luis de la Fuente insisted after the match that the Barcelona youngster had “nothing”, the teenager was left nursing the usual aches and bruises that come with another intense 90-minute performance.
SPAIN PLAY DOWN INJURY CONCERNS
Spain have made it clear they are leaving nothing to chance before the biggest game of the tournament.
The RFEF expects both Yamal and Porro to return to full training before Sunday’s final, with Thursday’s separate session forming part of the team’s recovery schedule rather than indicating any fresh injury concerns.
Porro’s case appears slightly more delicate after De la Fuente admitted following the France win that the Tottenham defender had been carrying a knock. Reuters understands the full-back is dealing with a minor hamstring strain, though the issue is not considered serious enough to jeopardise his place in the final.
Yamal’s situation appears even less concerning. The teenager has been one of Spain’s standout performers throughout the tournament and the coaching staff are simply looking to ensure he arrives at the final fully refreshed after another energetic display in the semi-final.
COUNTDOWN TO ARGENTINA BEGINS
The remainder of Spain’s training session passed without incident, with the squad appearing relaxed despite humid conditions and temperatures touching 30 degrees Celsius in New Jersey.
Luis de la Fuente’s side now have three days to complete their preparations before taking on defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, in one of the most eagerly anticipated World Cup finals in recent memory.
Spain are aiming to lift the World Cup for only the second time after their triumph in 2010, while Argentina are chasing back-to-back titles. With the biggest prize in international football on the line, Spain’s priority over the coming days will be ensuring every player, especially Yamal and Porro, is at full fitness when they walk out at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.
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