Alberto Moleiro has previously represented Spain at youth levels, earning eight caps and scoring one goal for the under-19s, plus 14 appearances for the under-21s. / RFEF
Ismael Mateu
Stepping into the shoes of a modern Villarreal CF icon like Álex Baena came with immense pressure and high expectations. But Alberto Moleiro has quietly shrugged off that burden and elevated his status this season. The Tenerife-born attacking midfielder was a bold investment for the Yellow Submarine, who signed him from UD Las Palmas for €16 million. In just a few months, the 22-year-old has transformed from a promising future asset into a standout name in La Liga, emerging as one of the biggest revelations of the 2025/26 campaign. His performances have not gone unnoticed by Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente.
Although not officially announced, reports—including remarks from the national team coach himself—indicate that Moleiro has been included in Spain’s preliminary squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This initial roster, submitted to FIFA before the final 26-man selection is unveiled, is not yet an official call-up, but it sends a clear message: De la Fuente has Moleiro firmly on his radar for the senior team.
### A Remarkable Season
Moleiro has delivered his best form on the pitch. In his first season at Villarreal, the Canary Islander has scored 10 goals and provided five assists in 34 league matches, along with seven appearances in the UEFA Champions League and one in the Copa del Rey. These numbers explain why his name is gaining traction at Spain’s national team base in Las Rozas.
Beyond the stats, his impact lies in a constant sense of danger: driving runs, incisive final passes, intelligent movement into the box, and a competitive maturity that belies his age—a player still in the midst of his development.
### Marcelino’s Catalyst
Manager Marcelino has unlocked a game-changing asset in Moleiro. Operating from the left, through the middle, or as an attacking midfielder, he has brought imbalance, composure, and cutting edge to Villarreal. He has made a difference in big matches, carried the team through tough spells, and boosted his offensive output to rank among the best Spanish players of the season.
### A Reward Before the Final Cut
Moleiro’s presence in the preliminary squad carries extra weight because his previous international experience was limited to youth teams. His Spain journey included the under-19s (eight games, one goal) and under-21s (14 matches), where he had already flashed his talent, but the senior side seemed a distant step. His outstanding year at Villarreal has accelerated that timeline.
The coach must now trim the provisional list to a final 26-player squad. Competition will be fierce, especially in attacking positions, where Spain boasts established stars and top-tier names. Yet simply being in that initial group places Moleiro in a new conversation: among those who could seize any last-minute opportunity due to injury or tactical shifts.
The FIFA deadline for federations to submit the final 26-man roster for the 2026 World Cup is June 1. The official squads for all 48 participating nations will be published on June 2. Changes are only allowed due to serious injury or illness, up to 24 hours before a team’s first match; goalkeepers may be replaced at any point during the tournament.
### Other Names in the Mix
Alongside Moleiro, other players reportedly on the preliminary list include Villarreal native Pau Torres, Castellón-born Pablo Fornals, Víctor Muñoz, and Jorge de Frutos—all awaiting the final cut. However, the Groguet attacker’s inclusion stands out as the most surprising: he had never previously been considered for the senior squad, and his breakthrough comes at the perfect moment.
De la Fuente has hinted that several spots remain open. Moleiro competes in a demanding area of the pitch, but his profile helps: he can play wide, operate between the lines, and offer something different when creativity is needed. In a World Cup squad, that versatility can be as valuable as goals.
Villarreal’s bold investment last summer has paid off immediately. La Cerámica has been the ideal showcase for Moleiro to confirm the potential glimpsed at Las Palmas: that he has the talent for bigger stages. His performances have not only boosted his market value but also placed him on the brink of joining La Roja.
The final decision rests with Luis de la Fuente. The definitive squad will determine whether Moleiro makes the World Cup trip or whether this preliminary nod serves as the first serious warning of his future with Spain. Either way, the message is clear: Alberto Moleiro’s season has not only won over Villarreal—it has also captured the attention of the Spanish national team.