Luis de la Fuente names five Barcelona stars in Spain squad for World Cup qualifiers | OneFootball

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has unveiled his squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifying fixtures against Georgia and Turkey, with five Barcelona players earning a call-up to represent La Roja. 

The matches are of huge significance, as Spain look to confirm their direct qualification for next summer’s tournament.

Currently sitting top of Group E with a three-point lead over second-placed Turkey, Spain can all but secure their spot at the World Cup if they maintain their form in these two crucial fixtures. 

Only the group winners will progress automatically, while the second-placed side will have to battle it out in the play-offs.

De la Fuente has named a 26-man squad, with Barcelona well-represented once again. 

Pau Cubarsi, Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez, and Ferran Torres have all made the final list. 

However, there was one notable omission – Pedri, who continues to recover from his latest injury setback. 

The midfielder has been sidelined since the El Clasico in late October, and both Barcelona and Spain are keen to ensure he regains full fitness before returning to competitive action.

All eyes on Lamine Yamal

The selection of Lamine Yamal, however, could become a talking point. 

The 18-year-old has not been operating at full fitness in recent weeks, and Barcelona’s medical team have been carefully monitoring his workload to prevent further discomfort. 

The club believes a short period of rest would be more beneficial for his long-term recovery. Yet, according to reports, De la Fuente does not entirely share that view. 

From his perspective, if Yamal is capable of featuring in demanding matches such as El Clasico and the Champions League, then he should also be available to contribute for Spain in these pivotal qualifiers.

This delicate situation once again puts the spotlight on the ongoing tension between club and country over player management. 

While Barcelona prioritise Yamal’s long-term well-being, De la Fuente’s focus remains firmly on ensuring Spain’s qualification.