The Spanish national team has now settled in the city of Chattanooga. With the 26 players selected by Luis de la Fuente now on US soil, 'La Roja' begins its countdown to the FIFA World Cup.

A World Cup campaign where the main collective goal will be to add a second star to their badge following the glory achieved in South Africa 2010. An unforgettable milestone in the history of Spanish football.

The group stage will demand the European side be at their very best. Their opening match is scheduled for 15 June against Cape Verde, followed by a clash with Saudi Arabia on 21 June, before they round off this first phase against Uruguay on 27 June.

To tackle this challenge, the coaching staff has a squad brimming with talent, including six stars who already know what it’s like to be in the spotlight at the Ballon d’Or gala.

So, on this occasion, we will take a look at the history and impact of Spanish internationals on this prestigious award:

Spanish national team players who have featured at the Ballon d’Or:

Rodri, Spain’s last bastion of gold

The metronome of 'La Roja' reached the pinnacle of world football by winning the Ballon d'Or in 2024. This historic achievement rewarded his consistency and his ability to dominate matches from midfield, both at Manchester City and for the Spanish national team.

Throughout his career, Rodri has been nominated for the award twice (2023 and 2023). His ability to dictate the pace of the game and his winning mentality establish him as a tactical compass with which Spain will seek to win the tournament in North America.

He is the most recent Spanish footballer to have been crowned with the Ballon d'Or.

Lamine Yamal, the precocious genius

The most dazzling breakthrough of recent times. With two nominations to his name, the young FC Barcelona winger has already left an indelible mark by achieving a spectacular second place in the overall Ballon d’Or 2025 rankings, competing on equal terms with the absolute elite.

His global impact is also reflected in a spectacular record at the gala: he is the winner of two consecutive Kopa Trophies (2024 and 2025). This award for the best young talent on the planet shows that the present and future of the Spanish attack lie at his feet.

Pedri, Spain’s new ‘mastermind’

His magic and clarity in the final third have earned Pedri a highly respected place on the international stage, with two Ballon d’Or nominations (2021 and 2025). A highlight of his journey towards the award is his commendable 11th place in the final rankings of the last edition.

Furthermore, as if that were not enough, the talented FC Barcelona midfielder already knows what it is like to lift the Kopa Trophy at the gala in Paris. He did so in the 2021 season, when he was just 17 years old.

His exquisite vision and ability to manage possession will be key to setting the tone for the national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nico Williams, a dazzling winger

Pure speed, dribbling and talent. The winger earned a Ballon d’Or nomination in 2025, thanks to his ability to tear apart opposing defences in the colours of Athletic Club and the Spanish national team that triumphed at the European Championship.

In the final vote, Williams finished in 15th place, a recognition that rewards his footballing maturity and establishes him as one of the most lethal attacking threats in the Spanish line-up for this World Cup.

Fabián Ruiz, a talent in midfield

The midfielder, currently in fine form at Paris Saint-Germain, has one official Ballon d’Or nomination to his name. Fabián managed to establish himself among the world’s best by finishing 24th in the final list for the 2025 edition.

With a superb long-range shot and a keen tactical sense when it comes to retaining possession, he will be one of the key players in the Spanish squad as they head into the tournament in North America.

Gavi, another youngster who won the Kopa Trophy

Although the FC Barcelona midfielder has not yet received any direct nominations for the full Ballon d'Or as such, he has already experienced the limelight on the red carpet in Paris.

His precocious talent, character and performances on the pitch quickly made him one of the most recognisable talents in world football, winning the Kopa Trophy in 2022.

This award recognised him as the best young footballer on the planet following a spectacular breakthrough season. His infectious intensity, his courage in every challenge and his ability to break through defences will bring an interesting dimension to the Spanish team.