The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup is already generating major headlines in Spain, even before the final squad is announced. According to reports, two longtime pillars of the Spanish national team—Dani Carvajal and Álvaro Morata—may not be part of the 55-man preliminary roster that had to be submitted to FIFA by Monday. Only players on this list are eligible for selection in the final 23-man squad.
Spanish newspaper As reports that neither the Real Madrid right-back nor the former Atlético Madrid and Juventus striker appears on the provisional list compiled by head coach Luis de la Fuente. If confirmed, it would mark a symbolic end to an era for two players who debuted for La Roja in 2014 and have since combined for 139 international caps—Carvajal with 52 and Morata with 87.
Both were instrumental in Spain’s recent triumphs: winning the UEFA Nations League in 2023 and the European Championship in Germany in 2024. Under De la Fuente, they were considered core members of the squad. However, injuries and form have taken a toll.
Carvajal, now 34, has been plagued by physical setbacks. In October 2024, he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament. After returning, he dealt with further muscle and knee issues, and more recently a hairline fracture in his foot from which he is still recovering. His absence from the preliminary list is a strong signal that his international career may be winding down.
Morata, 33 and currently on loan at Como from AC Milan, last played for Spain in September 2024. De la Fuente has omitted him from the last two international breaks, and his exclusion from the 55-man list suggests he is no longer in the manager’s plans.
The final World Cup squad will be announced by Luis de la Fuente in the coming weeks, but for Carvajal and Morata, the door may already be closed.
