Why didn't Lamine Yamal play for Spain vs. Iraq?

Spain continued their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they took on Iraq in an international friendly at the Estadio Riazor in A Coruña on June 4. The match ended in a 1-1 draw.

The match gave both teams one final opportunity to assess their squads before the tournament begins later this month.

At the World Cup, Spain have been drawn in Group H alongside Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay. Luis de la Fuente's side will be aiming to make a strong start in what appears to be a competitive group.

Iraq, meanwhile, are placed in Group I with Norway, France and Senegal. The friendly against Spain is provided valuable preparation before they begin their World Cup campaign.

Spain named a strong starting lineup for the match. Joan Garcia started in goal behind a back four of Pedro Porro, Aymeric Laporte, Cristian Martin and Alejandro Grimaldo. 

In midfield, Gavi, Marc Bernal and Dani Olmo featured, while Ferran Torres, Borja Iglesias and Alex Baena led the attack.

While several established names were absent from the starting lineup, Spain chose to manage the fitness of a number of big names ahead of the World Cup. 

Among those not involved are Lamine Yamal and Rodri, with the coaching staff focused on ensuring important players are fully ready for the tournament rather than taking unnecessary risks.

Why didn't Lamine Yamal play vs. Iraq?

Lamine Yamal was unavailable for Spain's friendly against Iraq because he is still recovering from a hamstring injury suffered during his final appearance for FC Barcelona in April. 

The teenager picked up the injury during Barcelona's match against Celta Vigo after being fouled in the build-up to a penalty that he successfully converted.

The injury forced Yamal to miss the remainder of Barcelona's domestic season, and Spain  decided not to rush his return just days before the start of the World Cup.