Cesar Azpilicueta, who hung up his boots on May 22, 2026, after a career spanning over 740 professional appearances, has voiced strong confidence in Spain’s World Cup prospects. The former Chelsea and Spain captain believes head coach Luis de la Fuente has built exactly the squad needed to compete at the highest level in North America this summer.

Azpilicueta earned 44 caps for La Roja and featured in three consecutive World Cups: 2014, 2018, and 2022.

A squad built on Euro 2024 foundations

De la Fuente’s 26-man selection leans heavily into youth and tactical versatility, a philosophy that paid dividends when Spain lifted the European Championship trophy at Euro 2024.

The goalkeeping trio of Unai Simon, David Raya, and Joan Garcia provides genuine competition at every level.

The midfield remains Spain’s calling card. Rodri and Pedri anchor the engine room, representing the established core that gives the squad its competitive spine.

The youth contingent is headlined by Lamine Yamal, whose inclusion represents a broader commitment from De la Fuente to trust emerging players on the biggest stage.

The Real Madrid absence

Perhaps the most striking detail in De la Fuente’s selection is the complete absence of Real Madrid players. For a club that has historically supplied a significant portion of Spain’s international squad, this is a notable departure from tradition.

For a nation that has won one World Cup and two European Championships since 2008, the expectation is always maximum.