CORNERFLICK
Andres Iniesta has backed Spain to be among the main contenders for the 2026 World Cup, saying the current squad has the technical, mental and personal qualities to challenge the best sides in the tournament.
Speaking at the opening of his football academy in Dubai, the former Spain and Barcelona midfielder said he hopes La Roja can repeat the 2010 triumph in South Africa. He pointed to Spain’s recent European Championship success as a major boost for the squad’s confidence and winning mentality.
Iniesta also singled out Lamine Yamal for praise. He said the Barcelona winger keeps revealing new layers to his game, describing him as a player with special quality, excellent vision and remarkable maturity for his age.
Iniesta added that Yamal could become one of Spain’s decisive players at the World Cup, alongside the more experienced figures in the squad, as they look to add another global title to the one won in 2010.