Lamine Yamal to wear No.19 as Spain announce World Cup squad numbers

Lamine Yamal will wear the No.19 shirt at his first World Cup after Spain confirmed their squad numbers. The teenage star will keep the number he has made famous with Barcelona as La Roja target a second world title. The announcement’s biggest talking point was the decision to give Gavi the No.9 shirt, a number traditionally associated with centre-forwards and previously worn by Fernando Torres and Alvaro Morata.

Several supporters criticised the choice on social media, arguing the number should remain with a recognised striker, while others noted that a number of expected starters have been given higher squad numbers rather than the traditional 1-11 range. Dani Olmo was handed the No.10 shirt, Nico Williams will wear No.17 and Mikel Oyarzabal No.21.

In goal, David Raya takes the No.1 jersey and Unai Simon is assigned No.23. Head coach Luis de la Fuente backed his side while urging caution: "We have to be cautious, despite being favourites. We have to go with our feet on the ground.

Spain

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