Spain World Cup base set as Yamal keeps low profile

Base camp set in Chattanooga

Spain have locked in their World Cup base, Chattanooga, Tennessee. The squad will train and stay at a school campus surrounded by nature, far from the tournament bustle. It is a deliberate choice for calm and focus ahead of the opener against Cape Verde. (1)

Yamal goes low-profile in Tennessee

Lamine Yamal is keeping things quiet at base camp. French reports describe the winger trying to stay incognito wherever possible around Chattanooga. After the Ballon d'Or runner-up finish and the injury concern that kept him out of the Peru friendly, all eyes are on him, and he seems to want none of them for now. (6)

Three keepers, one shirt

David Raya, Unai Simon and Joan Garcia are all in the mix two days out from the opener. It is an unusual situation, three genuine number-one candidates. Coach de la Fuente has not tipped his hand, and the competition among them is real. Whoever gets the nod against Cape Verde knows the others are pushing hard. (4)

Cooling vests deployed for extreme heat

Spain and Germany have both adopted cooling vests to handle the extreme temperatures expected during the tournament. The vests are worn before and after sessions to bring core temperature down quickly. With several venues set to be scorching, this could be a marginal gain that actually matters. (5)

Dani Olmo's girlfriend: World Cup fear

Dani Olmo's partner has spoken about her concern ahead of the World Cup, she fears becoming the most hated person in Germany. Olmo, who plays his club football at RB Leipzig, is a key figure for Spain and could face Germany in the knockout rounds. It is a rare glimpse into the personal side of a tournament build-up. (2)

Ex-Germany international backs Spain as favourites

A former Germany international has called Spain the favourites for this World Cup, but added that Carlo Ancelotti will make Brazil champions. The quote: "España es favorita, pero Ancelotti hará campeón a Brasil." It is the kind of outside pressure Spain fans will recognise, and probably enjoy. (7)

Alvarez still closed to Arsenal, Madrid and Barça in frame

Julian Alvarez has still not opened the door to an Arsenal move, leaving Real Madrid and Barcelona in the conversation. The Atletico Madrid forward is a target for several top clubs and both Spanish giants are watching closely. The summer window could hinge on where he lands. (3)

Arsenal eye Spain star

Arsenal are tracking an unnamed Spain international, according to the latest transfer round-up. Details are thin, but Mikel Arteta's side are in the market and looking at Spain's World Cup squad for options. Expect more noise once the tournament starts. (8)