Spain Reveals Squad for World Cup 2026 Qualifiers Against Bulgaria, Turkey

Spain’s national football team has announced the squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers, featuring the return of key players Rodri and Dani Carvajal. The announcement was made on August 29, 2025, as Spain prepares to face Bulgaria on September 4 and Turkey on September 7 in Group E.

Both Rodri and Carvajal have recently resumed play for their respective clubs after extended absences due to serious knee injuries. Rodri, a midfielder for Manchester City, played a pivotal role in Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024, but his season was cut short in September 2024 when he suffered a rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament. His return during the Club World Cup this summer marks a significant comeback for the talented player.

Meanwhile, Carvajal, a right-back for Real Madrid, experienced a challenging recovery after rupturing two knee ligaments and a tendon in October 2025. He, too, made his return in July during the FIFA tournament held in the United States, bringing experience and skill back to the squad.

Exciting Young Talent Included

In addition to the seasoned players, the squad also features rising stars from Barcelona, including Lamine Yamal and Pedri. These young talents have been making headlines in recent months for their impressive performances. Teammate Fermin Lopez, who has recently been linked with a potential transfer away from the Catalan club, is also part of the roster. Notably absent is new arrival goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who did not receive a call-up for this important qualifying series.

Looking ahead, Spain’s matches against Bulgaria and Turkey are crucial as they aim to secure a place in the World Cup scheduled for next summer across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The four-team group also includes Georgia, with the top team earning a spot in the prestigious tournament.

As the qualifying matches approach, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing the performance of both veteran players like Rodri and Carvajal, as well as the promising younger generation, as Spain seeks to build on its recent successes and establish a strong presence in the next World Cup.