Lamine Yamal to Don Number 19 Jersey for World Cup Debut

Lamine Yamal, the rising Spanish football star, will wear the number 19 jersey during his FIFA World Cup debut, reminiscent of Lionel Messi's first appearance. This decision leaves the number 10 for teammate Dani Olmo. Spain's squad, announced by coach Luis de la Fuente, notably lacks Real Madrid players. The team is set to compete in Group H, facing Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay, with their opening match scheduled for June 15 in Atlanta. Read on to learn more about Yamal's journey and Spain's World Cup preparations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 2, 2026, 14:55 IST

Lamine Yamal's World Cup Journey Begins

Spanish football prodigy Lamine Yamal is set to wear the number 19 jersey during his first FIFA World Cup appearance, reminiscent of Lionel Messi's debut with Argentina. This choice leaves the iconic number 10 for another teammate, as reported by a sports outlet.

According to the same source, Yamal has been assigned the number 19 shirt, which he wore while making a name for himself at Barcelona. He later transitioned to Messi's number 10 jersey, which he has sported throughout his burgeoning international career since debuting in 2023. The 18-year-old has embraced this number, playing a pivotal role in Spain's Euro 2024 victory and a runner-up finish in the UEFA League while wearing the number 19.

Overview of Spain's World Cup Squad

Recently, Spanish head coach Luis de la Fuente announced his 26-player roster for the World Cup, marking a historic moment as it features no players from Real Madrid, who had a season without trophies. On Monday, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) revealed the squad's jersey numbers. The number 10 jersey, previously worn by Yamal at Barcelona, will now be donned by teammate Dani Olmo, who has held this number since 2024. In the last FIFA World Cup held in Qatar, Marco Asensio wore the number 10 but has since been excluded from the current squad.

Spain's Group Stage and First Match

Spain finds itself in Group H alongside Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay. Their World Cup journey will kick off in Atlanta against Cape Verde on June 15.