Four debutants in Spain’s squad for Serbia and Egypt 2026 friendlies By Beatriz
4 min read
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The Spanish men’s football team released this Friday (March 20, 2026) the list of 27 called up by coach Luis de la Fuente for the two friendly matches of the next international window. The team will face Sérvia on March 27th, at 9pm (local time), at Estádio de la Cerámica, in Vila-real, and Egito on March 31st, at RCDE Esses clashes serve as final preparation for the Copa of the Mundo of 2026, which will be played between June 11th and July 19th in the Estados Unidos, México and Canadá.
Players focus on Cidade of Futebol starting Monday (March 23). The call-up highlights the inclusion of four newcomers in the absolute selection: goalkeeper Joan Garcia (FC Barcelona), defender Cristhian Mosquera (Valencia), striker Ander Barrenetxea (Real The group maintains the base that won recent titles, with names like Rodri, Pedri, Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo.
- Porteros: Unai Simón (Athletic Club), David Raya (Arsenal), Álex Remiro (Real Sociedad),
- Defenders: Marcos Llorente (Atlético de Madrid), Pedro Porro (Tottenham), Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen).
- Midfielders: Rodrigo Hernández (Manchester City), Martín Zubimendi (Real Sociedad), Fermín López (FC Barcelona).
- Forwards: Yeremy Pino (Villarreal), Álex Baena (Villarreal), Ander Barrenetxea (Real Barcelona).
Names highlighted in the call
The presence of Joan Garcia represents one of the main new features in the meta. The young goalkeeper from Barcelona gets an opportunity among the four called up for the position, alongside the usual starters Unai Simón, David Raya and Álex Remiro. The decision reinforces the search for additional options in a strategic sector.
Luis de la Fuente chose to maintain the backbone of the team that has been playing in international competitions. Jogadores as well as Rodri, Pedri and Lamine Yamal remain central pieces in the tactical scheme.
Preparation for the Mundial of 2026
Friendlies against Sérvia and Egito close the March window and serve as a definitive test before the final list for Copa of Mundo. The team seeks to adjust tactical details and evaluate the athletes’ physical conditioning after an intense season at the clubs.
The confrontation with Sérvia takes place at Vila-real, a stadium that has hosted the team’s games on previous occasions. The duel with Egito returns to Barcelona after four years, at the Espanyol stadium, with a capacity for more than 38 thousand spectators.
Rookies get chance in the final stretch
Four players make their debut in the absolute selection in this call-up. Cristhian Mosquera arrives at the defense to add defensive depth, while Ander Barrenetxea and Víctor Muñoz reinforce the attack with speed and finishing options.
Joan Garcia completes the quartet of goalkeepers and can play minutes in training or in one of the games. The inclusion of these names demonstrates the strategy of gradual renewal without losing competitiveness.
Experienced base maintains balance
The midfield remains strong with Rodri as a key player in distribution and recovery. Pedri, Dani Olmo and Fermín López offer creativity and dynamism, while Zubimendi and Soler guarantee solidity.
In attack, Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres lead the offensive line, supported by Oyarzabal and Baena. The variety allows for different configurations depending on the opponent.
Changes to the international calendar
The call comes after the cancellation of Finalissima against Argentina, initially scheduled for March in Doha. Fatores external factors, including geopolitical issues, led to the search for viable alternatives.
The RFEF quickly closed the friendlies with Sérvia and Egito to maintain the pace of preparation. Ambos the games take place in Spanish territory, facilitating logistics and focus on training.
Tactical strategy from Luis to Fuente
The coach prioritizes the continuity of the playing style based on ball possession and high pressing. Friendlies allow you to test variations in defense and attack, especially with new features incorporated.
The concentration starts next Monday, with intense sessions at Cidade of Futebol. The group works to reach Mundial under ideal conditions.
Details of upcoming appointments
The game against Sérvia is scheduled for March 27th, at 9pm local time, at Estádio de la Cerámica. The duel with Egito will take place on March 31st, at RCDE Stadium, a time yet to be confirmed by the federation.
These meetings represent the last opportunity for collective adjustments before the global tournament. The Spanish team seeks to consolidate the group to seek good performance in the Copa of the Mundo.
