Spain's World Cup Winners: One Month On

On 19 July, Luis de la Fuente's Spain claimed their second FIFA World Cup title, defeating their opponents in a dramatic final at New York New Jersey Stadium. The 106th-minute winner, scored by Ferran Torres, has already become part of Spanish football folklore. Now, exactly one month later, FIFA examines where the champions stand as they prepare for the next major milestone: the 2030 World Cup, which Spain will co-host.

Champions in New Colors

The post-World Cup period has seen significant movement among the squad. Ferran Torres, the hero of the final, has joined Paris Saint-Germain, linking up with Luis Enrique's side as they pursue a third consecutive UEFA Champions League title. In Paris, he reunites with Fabian Ruiz, who has already experienced both triumph and disappointment this season, winning the UEFA Super Cup but losing the Trophee des Champions to RC Lens. This marks Ruiz's fifth campaign with the French club.

Rodri, the adidas Golden Ball winner and Spain's midfield anchor, has returned to Spanish football, signing with Barcelona. The move brings one of the world's best midfielders back to La Liga after his stint at Manchester City.

Club Movements and New Challenges

Several champions have switched clubs or taken on new roles. Atletico Madrid has strengthened its defense with the arrivals of Cristian Romero and the return of left-back Grimaldo, who spent a decade abroad with Benfica and Bayer Leverkusen. Grimaldo made his World Cup debut in the 99th minute of the final. Alongside Pubill and Grimaldo, he is the third Spanish world champion in Atletico's back line.

At Barcelona, the 22-year-old midfielder Gavi, who missed much of the 2025/26 season through injury, is seeking a fresh start under Hansi Flick. Dani Olmo remains a key creative force for the Blaugrana. Meanwhile, at Crystal Palace, the winger Nico Williams aims to stay central to a side competing in the 2026/27 Europa League, following a remarkable 2026 in which he won both the World Cup and the UEFA Conference League.

Goalkeepers and Defenders

David Raya, the Arsenal goalkeeper, did not feature at the World Cup but has already claimed silverware in 2026/27, playing in the Gunners' 3-0 Community Shield win over Manchester City. His only World Cup minutes came in stoppage time of the Round of 32, during the 3-0 win over Austria.

Unai Simon, the outstanding Barcelona goalkeeper, will look to cement his status as his club's undisputed No.1 and push for the same role with Spain in the new cycle. At Athletic Club, the 32-year-old left-footed defender Yuri Berchiche returns from the title triumph, ready to lead the revamped side under Edin Terzic.

Midfielders and Forwards

Mikel Merino has also started the season with a trophy at Arsenal, though he did not feature against Manchester City. A key figure at the World Cup, where he scored against Portugal and Belgium, he hopes for an injury-free campaign.

Pedro Porro, who finished 17th in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur, ended a difficult club season in the best possible way by becoming a world champion, contributing two goals along the way. At Atletico, Alex Baena faces fresh competition from new signing Lee Kangin, but having started 28 of his 46 club appearances, he will look to take another step forward under Diego Simeone.

As the champions disperse to their clubs, the focus now shifts to the 2030 World Cup, where Spain will be among the host nations. The journey to defend their title begins now.