Winger Nico Williams says he is prepared to step into Spain’s starting XI alongside Lamine Yamal for their decisive Group H encounter against Uruguay.
Spain currently sit top of the group as they head into the contest in Guadalajara, Mexico, having secured a 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia in their previous match. Yamal, who has returned from injury, played a prominent role in that victory, giving Spain a strong platform. Even so, the team still requires a result to seal qualification in first place, a position that would also help them steer clear of a potentially difficult meeting with Argentina in the round of 32.
Against Saudi Arabia, Yamal received 45 minutes, while Williams was limited to a brief appearance lasting around half an hour.
Speaking to reporters ahead of Spain training in Guadalajara on Thursday, Williams said he feels ready on a physical level but is still working toward the sharpness needed at full intensity. “Physically I feel good,” he said. “But I still need to find competitive rhythm, that spark that defines me. That will come, with the extra training I’m doing.”
Williams, who played a key role in Spain’s run to success at Euro 2024, added that whether he starts against Uruguay is a decision for coach Luis de la Fuente.
“I’ll keep working as I have been,” Williams said. “If the boss gives me a chance, that will be welcome, if not, I’ll keep working hard and supporting my teammates … No, [there’d be no problem starting].”
He also commented on the wider attacking qualities of elite forwards, suggesting that the competition for goals is intense while expressing hope Spain can be ruthless in front of goal and get the best out of Yamal. “Messi doesn’t surprise me,” Williams said. “Messi is Messi. He does the things he does, he’s incredible. And as well there’s Vinícius [Junior], [Erling] Haaland, [Kylian] Mbappé, competing for the Golden Boot … I hope we can be clinical in front of goal, and see the best of Lamine, too.”
In the win over Saudi Arabia, Pedro Porro was introduced at right-back and formed an effective connection with Yamal as Spain pressed forward. Porro described the experience of playing with the young winger as a major advantage. “It’s a privilege to play with him,” Porro said. “There are various aspects of the game which you have to bear in mind when you have a player like Lamine in front of you, but that’s all. I’ve played a lot of games with him already, and over time we understand each other better.”
Yéremy Pino, meanwhile, praised de la Fuente for the way he has handled and managed the group as the tournament has progressed.
“He’s been so impressive with me,” Pino said. “In the way he treated me, when I came back from a long-term injury. He supported me. For me and the group he’s essential, he helps this team grow and believe in itself.”
