Joan García is still waiting for his first appearance for La Roja.
Spain have been in outstanding form ever since their triumph at Euro 2024, showing no signs of slowing down. As European champions, they’ve carried that momentum forward and continue to look like one of the strongest sides heading into the 2026 World Cup.
Under Luis de la Fuente, the team has been well-drilled and tactically sharp, with a squad full of quality across every position. Their preparations have been smooth so far, and recent results only underline their consistency. A comfortable 3-0 win over Serbia during the March international break is the latest example of their dominance.
With so much depth, picking the starting XI is no easy task, but Spain look well-balanced across the pitch. Their attacking options have been lively, while the midfield continues to dictate games with control and composure, making them a serious contender on the global stage.
With defenders like Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella and Marcos Llorente providing solidity at the back, Spain look well covered defensively.
Unai Simón has been the regular starter in goal, but the competition remains strong. David Raya and Joan García are both pushing hard for that spot, giving the team real depth in the goalkeeping department.
Spain’s No.1 Debate: Who Gets the Gloves for the 2026 World Cup?
3. Joan Garcia
The 24-year-old made the move to Barcelona in 2025 and has quickly established himself as their first-choice goalkeeper thanks to a string of impressive performances. Under Hansi Flick, he’s been in excellent form, which also earned him his first call-up to the Spain national team during the recent international break.
He’s still got work to do to lock down a starting spot for La Roja, though. Barcelona’s defensive record this season has been solid, and his individual numbers back that up — averaging 2.8 saves per game, a strong save percentage, and conceding less than a goal per match.
While he’s clearly a promising option for the future, he still sits just behind David Raya in the pecking order for now.
2. David Raya
David Raya has been in outstanding form for Arsenal and, based on club performances, has arguably outshone Unai Simón. With a strong defensive record behind him, he’s played a key role in keeping goals to a minimum while maintaining consistent performances.
Statistically, he’s been solid — averaging 1.7 saves per game, a healthy save percentage, and conceding less than a goal per match. Despite regularly being part of the Spain squad, he hasn’t quite nailed down the No.1 spot yet.
His last appearance for La Roja came during the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League, but based on current form, he has a strong case to start ahead of Simón if that level continues.
1. Unai Simón
Despite not having the strongest season at club level with Athletic Club, Unai Simón continues to be Luis de la Fuente’s trusted option for Spain. The 28-year-old has consistently delivered in international colours, showing composure and reliability when it matters most.
He started all six World Cup qualifying matches and conceded just twice, underlining his importance to La Roja. While his club numbers this season raise a few concerns, his performances for Spain tell a different story.
Even with competition heating up, Simón remains the manager’s go-to choice and is expected to keep his spot heading into the World Cup.
Conclusion
Spain are spoiled for choice in goal. While Unai Simón hasn’t been at his best at club level, he continues to deliver when it comes to the national team. On the other hand, David Raya and Joan García may have the edge statistically, but they still trail in terms of trust and experience under Luis de la Fuente.
Simón’s consistent presence in World Cup qualifiers and recent friendlies makes the picture quite clear. As things stand, he remains the frontrunner to be Spain’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 2026 World Cup.
