The update says neither Yamal nor Williams is expected to feature in the friendly against Iraq, and that makes sense. Spain do not need a rushed comeback in a warm-up game if the bigger target is the first competitive night of the tournament.
Even for a squad with depth, those are not easy qualities to replace. Spain can control matches without them, but they become far more dangerous when both wide threats are available.
The most telling part of the report may be the coach’s restraint. “If everything continues as it has been so far, he could be ready on June 15, but that doesn't guarantee that he will play,” De la Fuente said of Yamal, according to the report.
That sounds like a manager protecting both player and plan. Spain appear determined to avoid turning encouraging medical progress into unnecessary risk. It is a sensible approach, especially with a long tournament in view.
As reigning European champions, Spain will travel with expectation. De la Fuente also described this as a World Cup “in which the most teams have a realistic prospect of winning,” a reminder that reputation alone will not carry anyone through.
The next immediate clue comes against Iraq, but the real focus remains 15 June. If Yamal and Williams are fit enough even for partial roles against Cape Verde, Spain’s opening-night ceiling looks much higher.