Fabián Ruiz says Spain’s midfield choices are a strength before Austria test

Fabián Ruiz says he is back to full fitness as Spain prepare to face Austria in the World Cup last 32. The midfielder has not started since the opening match against Cape Verde, but he framed the competition for places as part of the squad’s strength rather than a concern.

Spain have left their Chattanooga base for Los Angeles, with Dallas potentially next if they progress. The move comes amid external debate about their rhythm, injuries in wide areas and how Luis de la Fuente should balance a midfield group in which Pedri and Rodri have been regular starters while Fabián, Dani Olmo and Mikel Merino have rotated around them.

Fabián’s return to peak condition is a key subplot. He acknowledged that recovering sharpness after a long absence was difficult, but said he arrived with the national team after a run of high-level games for Paris Saint-Germain and now feels ready to contribute.

The wider question for Spain is tactical as much as personal. Starting Fabián can push the team toward a different midfield shape, but his message is that the identity should remain collective: whoever starts, the midfielders must sustain the same idea and support one another.