Mikel Merino lone Spain absentee at training after Cape Verde draw

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·17. Juni 2026

Mikel Merino lone Spain absentee at training after Cape Verde draw

Mikel Merino was the only Spain absentee from training on Tuesday, the day after their surprise 0-0 draw with Cape Verde at the World Cup.

According to L'Équipe, the Arsenal midfielder, who featured for about 20 minutes on Monday, was due to speak at a midday news conference at the European champions' base in Chattanooga, Tennessee. His absence did not worry the Spain staff.

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During the 15 minutes open to media, the 25 players worked on the toro drill in two groups, interspersed with runs. The mood was notably less relaxed than the previous week.

Lamine Yamal, introduced in the 71st minute on Monday without making a decisive impact, trained with a serious expression.

Spain face Saudi Arabia in their second Group H game on Sunday 21 at 18:00, then play Uruguay on 27 June.

Source: L'Équipe