De la Fuente likely to field World Cup starters as Spain prepare for Cabo Verde opener
Spain travel to Mexico on Sunday for their second and final warm-up fixture ahead of the FIFA World Cup, with head coach Luis de la Fuente expected to field a side closely resembling the team set to begin the tournament against Cabo Verde on June 15.
La Roja will make the short journey to Puebla to take on Peru on Monday, just three days after arriving at their World Cup base camp in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The encounter presents an additional challenge for the Spanish squad, as Puebla sits at an altitude of approximately 2,100 metres, leaving little time for the players to acclimatise.
De la Fuente opted to rest several key players during Spain’s 1-1 draw against Iraq on Thursday, but many of those expected to feature prominently at the World Cup are likely to return to action against Peru.
Among those set to receive valuable minutes are Mikel Oyarzabal, Pedri, Rodri, Pau Cubarsí, Marcos Llorente and Marc Cucurella, all of whom did not feature against Iraq.
Champions League finalists Martín Zubimendi, David Raya and Fabián Ruiz are also expected to play, while Mikel Merino continues his recovery from the ankle injury that has sidelined him since February and is in need of match fitness ahead of the tournament.
The Spain coach has expressed optimism regarding the fitness of attacking duo Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, insisting that both players should be available for the World Cup opener against Cabo Verde. However, neither player is expected to feature in Monday’s friendly, with both anticipated to resume full group training next week.
Following the draw with Iraq, De la Fuente revealed that he had already decided on the starting line-up for Spain’s opening World Cup fixture. As a result, the goalkeeper selected to start against Peru is widely expected to retain his place against Cabo Verde.
Goalkeeper Joan García endured a difficult outing against Iraq, making an error that led to the opposition’s goal and appearing uncertain at times. This could pave the way for Unai Simón to reclaim the number one role, although David Raya is also likely to be given an opportunity as Spain intensify their preparations for the tournament.
With the World Cup fast approaching, Monday’s encounter offers Spain a final opportunity to fine-tune tactics, assess player fitness and build momentum before the serious business begins against Cabo Verde.
