Yamal expected to start against Saudi Arabia for greater impact, says Cadena SER

According to Cadena SER, Yamal is expected to start in Spain's match against Saudi Arabia.

Spain will face Saudi Arabia this Sunday in a match they cannot afford to lose. After a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde in their opening match, Luis de la Fuente's side must secure three points to move past their disappointing debut and focus on advancing to the next round. Compared to the starting lineup used against Cape Verde, Spain is expected to make several changes, with Yamal featuring prominently. The Barcelona winger has indicated he is ready to start against Saudi Arabia.

During Cadena SER's "El Larguero" program, journalist Santi Ovalle discussed the topic. He explained that including Barcelona winger Yamal in Luis de la Fuente's starting eleven against Saudi Arabia is among current plans: "Every time we speak to the team at their base in Chattanooga, all the journalists ask if Yamal will play. The answer we get is: 'There is no other option.'" This suggests Yamal feels fully recovered. While Luis de la Fuente prefers to manage his minutes carefully, Yamal is eager to start and contribute to the team's efforts.

Ovalle stated on Cadena SER that both Yamal and Nico Williams need playing time to regain their match rhythm. Both players have been sidelined for several weeks, and the wingers need accumulated minutes to reach peak fitness. Consequently, both are keen to start: "Yamal feels good when he plays, as does Nico. Yamal wants more playing time now to avoid running out of steam around the 60-minute mark later due to lack of sharpness."

Therefore, Yamal is expected to start, while Nico Williams may feature in the second half as Spain prepares for the crucial match against Uruguay. Ovalle added: "Nico Williams has stated in interviews that he believes he will be fully fit before the round of 16. He feels he can play approximately 30 minutes against Saudi Arabia, but from the Uruguay match onward, he hopes to be able to start." By contrast, Yamal is progressing faster and already aims to start against Saudi Arabia.

This approach will restore depth to Spain's flanks, which will be crucial against teams that defend deep—like Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia, which are likely to adopt a similar defensive approach. However, since Nico Williams is not yet ready to start, Luis de la Fuente may opt for Yeremy Pino. Both of Spain's wing positions are likely to see changes, and the attacking midfield spot may also be adjusted. Ovalle noted: "Olmo believes he has earned his opportunity."

Additionally, Olmo has excellent chemistry with Yamal, which gives him a chance to start alongside his Barcelona teammate. Ovalle explained: "Yamal has admitted that Olmo is one of his best partners, if not the best, and he wants Olmo positioned closer to him on the pitch." Olmo is currently in good form and also senses his opportunity has arrived. Therefore, Spain is expected to adjust primarily in attack to increase their impact against Saudi Arabia.