Cristiano Ronaldo’s former Al-Nassr teammate Aymeric Laporte could end Real Madrid star’s 2026 FIFA World Cup dream with Spain

Christiano Ronaldo has shared dressing rooms with many elite defenders over the course of his career, from Champions League winners in Madrid to ambitious projects abroad. One of those former teammates is now quietly reshaping the landscape of international football ahead of 2026. As Spain begins to narrow down its options for the next FIFA World Cup, a familiar and familiar figure is returning to the spotlight as he puts unexpected pressure on a younger star at club level. The consequence can be serious: a World Cup dream at stake.

Of Ronaldo after previously standing alongside Aymeric Laporte bee Al-Nassrthe revival of the defender is now being felt far beyond club football. For Spain, continuity and trust are important – and that reality can be at the expense of its youth.

Trainer Spain Luis de la Fuente faces one of the most delicate balancing acts of his tenure. With the upcoming tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada approaching, La Roja are largely building on the foundations of their successful Euro 2024 campaign. Stability has been rewarded, but competition is becoming increasingly fierce.

Midfield places are already under threat, with the emerging form of Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino putting pressure on the established names. Even former captain Alvaro Morata faces an uphill battle to secure his ticket. But perhaps the most unstable area of ​​all central defensewhere experience, reliability and fitness are balanced against youth and potential.

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Rapid rise followed by uncertainty

Few players broke into Spain’s lineup so quickly Dean Huijsen. First called up in March, the young defender immediately impressed in the Nations League quarter-finals and quickly became a regular when fit. Between March and October, he not a minute missed for the national side.

However, that momentum has stalled. Injuries have disrupted his rhythm, forcing him to withdraw from multiple international windows. During that same period his form improved Real Madrid is submerged, with uncharacteristic errors creeping into his performances Xabi Alonso. According to the Spanish newspaper MarkingThese factors have combined to put his World Cup spot in real jeopardy.

Dean Huijsen of Spain reacts during the semi-final of the 2025 UEFA Nations League

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The Laporte factor returns

The biggest complication for Huijsen is not only internal competition; it is the return of a trusted leader. Laporte’s return to Spanish football has completely changed the equation. While his spell in Saudi Arabia led to a temporary halt to Spain’s plans, Laporte remains one of De la Fuente’s most trusted defenders. He formed the coach together with Robin Le Normand first choice centre-back during Euro 2024 in Germany.

Ronaldo from Al-Nassr

Now reunited on home soil, both are widely regarded virtually certainties for the World Cup if fit, and that leaves little room. It is expected that Spain will adopt this four central defenderswith at least five strong candidates in the fray. With Laporte and Le Normand effectively locked up, Huijsen is fighting for the remaining spots against Pau Cubarsi and Dani Vivian. None of the trio enjoy flawless seasons, which only adds to the tension.

There are also outsiders who are pushing hard. Arsenal defender Cristhian Mosquera has impressed with his versatility, able to operate at center or right-back, while Aitor Paredes remains on the radar. The margins are small, and recent form is important.