Lamine Yamal Returns To Training With Spain Ahead Of World Cup Opener vs. Cabo Verde

Spain have received a significant fitness boost ahead of the 2026 World Cup with Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams returning to full training.

The dynamic duo had been major doubts for the tournament opener, but their presence at the team's base camp suggests they are ready for the big stage.

Yamal and Williams returned to full training with Spain at the team's base camp in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on Thursday. The news comes as an enormous relief to head coach Luis de la Fuente, who has been sweating on the fitness of his two most explosive wide players just days before the tournament begins.

Yamal, Williams and Victor Munoz had all missed the final warm-up friendly match against Peru on Monday because of injuries. While the rest of the squad travelled for that fixture, the trio remained at the team's training base to undergo intensive rehabilitation programmes to ensure they could head to the tournament properly prepared.

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There was particular concern surrounding Barcelona star Yamal, who has not played a competitive match since April 22 because of an injured left hamstring. The 18-year-old is considered a vital component of Spain’s attacking philosophy, and his long-term absence had sparked fears that he might miss the group stages entirely.

However, the outlook is now much more positive. Spain coach said last week he expects Yamal to be "ready to play" in Spain's opening World Cup game, although he admitted that the Barcelona winger's involvement could be limited to "just a few minutes." Even a cameo appearance would be welcomed by the Spanish faithful as they look to build momentum early on.

The return of the star pair was met with high spirits within the camp as the European champions finalised