De la Fuente Keeps Door Open for Carvajal Ahead of World Cup

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has refused to rule veteran defender Dani Carvajal out of his plans for the upcoming World Cup, although he admitted the Real Madrid captain still has work to do to prove his fitness and form before the tournament begins.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, De la Fuente said Carvajal remains an influential presence within the national team setup despite concerns surrounding his recent injury setback. The 34-year-old right back suffered a right foot problem during training last week, raising fresh doubts over whether he will make Spain’s final squad for the competition in North America.

“Carvajal is a very important figure in our dressing room,” De la Fuente said. “I actually spoke with him yesterday, so I’m aware of what’s going on. He doesn’t have a specific injury, nothing serious, but he needs time to get back to his usual level.”

The Spain coach added that the coming weeks would be decisive for the experienced defender as he attempts to regain match sharpness before the World Cup starts on June 11.

“We’ll see in the remaining matches whether he truly gets the opportunity and delivers the performances,” De la Fuente explained.

Carvajal has endured a difficult campaign with Real Madrid, struggling for regular minutes amid strong competition from Trent Alexander-Arnold. The defender has made only one appearance for Spain in 2025, adding to uncertainty over his international future.

The timing is also significant for Carvajal off the pitch, with the defender approaching the final weeks of his current contract with the Spanish giants. Questions over his long-term role at club level have intensified during a season in which injuries and selection competition have limited his influence.

Despite the uncertainty, De la Fuente suggested Carvajal’s experience and leadership still make him an important option for Spain if he can recover fully in time for the tournament. However, the coach also indicated the player would understand if he ultimately missed out on selection.

Spain opens its World Cup campaign against Cape Verde on June 15 before facing Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in Group H as the tournament takes place across the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.