Spain national team manager Luis de la Fuente has reportedly made a major decision regarding the squad for the 2026 World Cup, with experienced defender Dani Carvajal at risk of missing the tournament due to internal tensions.
Reports suggest that the coach plans to leave out the Real Madrid captain in order to maintain harmony inside the dressing room. The issue centres around his ongoing conflict with Lamine Yamal, the rising star of Barcelona.
The tension between the two players began before a La Liga Clasico in late October, where Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu. The situation escalated after Yamal made controversial comments that appeared to criticise Madrid, which did not sit well with Carvajal. Since that moment, their relationship has deteriorated significantly.
World Cup Ambitions at Risk as Dressing Room Stability Becomes Priority
Luis de la Fuente now fears that this ongoing conflict could disrupt team unity at a crucial time. Spain aim to compete strongly at the FIFA World Cup 2026 and chase a second title after their historic triumph in 2010. The coach wants a fully focused and united squad, and he believes that any internal conflict could damage those ambitions.
According to reports from Spanish media, the decision to potentially exclude Carvajal does not only relate to his issue with Yamal. Several Barcelona players reportedly remain unhappy with the Real Madrid defender due to past incidents, including a heated moment during a Clasico where Carvajal appeared to clash with the young winger.
The tension resurfaced again during the Spanish Super Cup final in January, where Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 3-2. Both players refused to shake hands and exchanged words on the pitch, which further highlighted the depth of the issue. This behaviour reportedly frustrated the national team coach, who expects senior players to set a professional example.
De la Fuente views Carvajal’s actions as unacceptable for a player with vast experience, especially when compared to the much younger Yamal. The coach wants leaders who promote unity rather than conflict within the squad.
Beyond the personal issues, Carvajal also faces challenges related to form and fitness. Injuries have affected his performances this season, and his level has dropped compared to previous years. These factors make his position in the squad even more uncertain as Spain prepare for a highly competitive tournament.
As things stand, the situation remains under close observation. However, if tensions continue and performances do not improve, Dani Carvajal could miss out on one of the biggest stages in world football, while Lamine Yamal strengthens his role as a key figure for Spain’s future.