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Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo has stepped forward to shut down speculation about internal issues within the Spain squad after the announcement of shirt numbers for the 2026 World Cup. Despite his extraordinary rise as one of football’s brightest young stars, teenager Lamine Yamal will not be sporting the legendary No.10 jersey during the tournament in North America this summer.

Olmo dismisses talk around jersey allocation

As La Roja prepare to chase another world title, the release of squad numbers has sparked much discussion among fans and media circles. Many expected Yamal to inherit the symbolic No.10 shirt, but it remains in the possession of Olmo, while the 18-year-old winger has decided to keep his familiar No.19 – the same number he has worn at club level for Barcelona.

Olmo was quick to clarify that the choice came without any internal disagreement, emphasising that the team unity remains intact. “There are no problems behind closed doors, there’s no fuss about wearing the No.10. It’s just rumours going around outside,” Olmo explained during a recent press conference.

Continuing with a proven formula

For Olmo, holding on to the No.10 shirt is largely a matter of personal comfort and superstition. The creative midfielder was a key contributor to Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, and he sees no reason to alter something that has worked well as Luis de la Fuente’s side heads into the World Cup.

“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?” Olmo added.

Although supporters traditionally associate the No.10 with the team’s standout star, Olmo’s consistent performances in the shirt make him a natural choice to continue the tradition, as Spain aim to capture another world crown and add a second star to their badge.

Yamal and Spain’s unusual numbering choices

While Yamal’s preference for the No.19 has grabbed attention, he isn’t the only player involved in unexpected number selections. Spain’s official squad list caused a stir on social media, especially after it was revealed that midfielder Gavi will wear the No.9 jersey — a number typically reserved for clinical strikers such as Fernando Torres.

The decision highlights Spain’s modern, flexible approach under De la Fuente, where traditional positional numbers are being reinterpreted. Elsewhere, Pedri will take the No.20 shirt, while Ferran Torres has been assigned No.7.

Yamal’s choice to retain No.19 reflects his past identity at Barcelona, where he wore it before later stepping into Lionel Messi’s iconic No.10 at Camp Nou. His decision suggests a preference for continuity and comfort as he transitions into a starring role on the world stage.

Positive fitness update for Yamal

Beyond shirt numbers, there’s encouraging news about Yamal’s recovery from injury. The youngster had missed the final stretch of the domestic season, raising concerns about his readiness for Spain’s World Cup campaign. However, Olmo offered a positive update regarding his team-mate’s progress.

“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,” said Olmo.

Spain are now finalising their World Cup preparations and will play Iraq in a friendly on Thursday. De la Fuente is expected to rotate his squad in that encounter before focusing fully on the competitive fixtures ahead.