Spain's national team has received a significant boost with the return of key players Rodri and Dani Carvajal to the squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. After recovering from long-term injuries, the experienced duo are set to join the team for the matches against Bulgaria and Turkey in September.

Rodri, the Manchester City midfielder and Ballon d'Or holder, was sidelined for several months after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in September 2024. He then faced a further setback with a groin injury during the Club World Cup in July. After a gradual return to competitive action in August, Rodri's inclusion in the Spain squad is expected to bring composure and control to the midfield, a role in which he has excelled since Spain's Euro 2024 victory.

Carvajal, the Real Madrid right-back, also suffered an ACL injury in October 2024. He made his comeback in July during the Club World Cup, providing stability and experience to Spain's defense. His return comes at a crucial time, with two away fixtures on the horizon.

Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente, expressed his satisfaction with the return of Rodri and Carvajal, emphasizing their importance both on and off the field. He highlighted their contribution to the team and the significance of having everyone involved and aware of what is at stake. De la Fuente acknowledged the tough qualifying campaign ahead and his desire to consolidate the concept of family within the team from the start.

In addition to the return of experienced players, the squad also features emerging talents. Barcelona players Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi have been included, along with Fermin Lopez. Jesus Rodriguez, a 19-year-old winger from Italian club Como, has received his first senior call-up.

The full squad includes goalkeepers Unai Simon, David Raya, and Alex Remiro; defenders Dani Carvajal, Dean Huijsen, Pedro Porro, Dani Vivian, Pau Cubarsi, Robin Le Normand, Alejandro Grimaldo, and Marc Cucurella; midfielders Martin Zubimendi, Rodri, Gavi, Fermin Lopez, Pedri Gonzalez, Dani Olmo, and Mikel Merino; and forwards Alvaro Morata, Mikel Oyarzabal, Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, Yeremy Pino and Jesus Rodriguez.

Spain, the Euro 2024 winners, will begin their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with two away fixtures in Group E. They will first face Bulgaria on September 4 at the Vasil Levski National Stadium in Sofia, followed by a match against Turkey in Konya on September 7. Georgia is also in Group E.