Mikel Merino only absentee as Spain train after World Cup 0-0 with Cape Verde

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·17. Juni 2026

Mikel Merino only absentee as Spain train after World Cup 0-0 with Cape Verde

Mikel Merino was Spain’s only player missing from Tuesday’s session, the day after their World Cup-opening 0-0 with Cape Verde.

According to L'Équipe, the Arsenal midfielder played roughly 20 minutes on Monday and was due to speak at a midday press conference at the European champions’ base in Chattanooga, Tennessee. His absence did not cause any concern within Spain’s staff.

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During the 15 minutes open to media, all 25 players took part in rondo drills in two groups, interspersed with short runs.

The mood was more subdued than last week. Lamine Yamal, introduced in the 71st minute on Monday without making a decisive impact, trained with a stern expression.

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

Source: L'Équipe