Olmo rejects talk of problems behind closed doors over Yamal's No.10

Dani Olmo dismissed speculation about friction in the Spain camp after the squad numbers for the 2026 World Cup were announced. Despite Lamine Yamal’s meteoric rise, the 18-year-old will not wear the No.10 in North America; Olmo remains in the No.10 while Yamal has opted to keep No.19.

“There are no problems behind closed doors, there’s no fuss about wearing the No. 10. It’s just rumors going around outside,” Olmo said. He described the choice as one of superstition and continuity: “It’s a number I’ve worn before, the one we won the Euros with. It’s a number I like, so why change it when everything is going well?”

The squad list included other surprising assignments — Gavi with No.9, Pedri No.20 and Ferran Torres No.7. Olmo added that Yamal is progressing in his recovery: “I see him doing well. He’s training little by little as part of his rehabilitation. He’s making good progress and we’re happy with that.” Spain are scheduled to face Iraq in a warm-up friendly as they finalise preparations.

Spain, North America

dani olmo, lamine yamal, spain, no.10, no.19, squad numbers, world cup, gavi, pedri, ferran torres