Liverpool's new signing Victor Munoz could make his first appearance at the 2026 World Cup when Spain faces Austria in the round of 32 on Thursday. The 22-year-old winger, who joined Liverpool from Osasuna for £34.5 million earlier this month, has been sidelined with an injury during Spain's Group H campaign but has now returned to full training.
Munoz Returns to Training
Munoz has been training with the Spain squad in Chattanooga as they prepare for the knockout clash in Los Angeles. While he is unlikely to start against Austria due to his recent return to full training, his availability is a significant boost for Spain manager Luis de la Fuente, who has lost wingers Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino to injuries sustained against Uruguay. Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is currently Spain's only fit winger.
Frustration and Mental Support
Munoz expressed his frustration at missing Spain's group stage matches, calling the World Cup "the dream of a child." He said: "We were carrying it (the injury), but I noticed a discomfort and we are trying to resume the process to be on the field as soon as possible. They have been very complicated moments because this is the dream of a child and seeing that it can be twisted by an injury annoys you a lot."
He credited Spain national team psychologist Javier Lopez Vallejo for helping him cope: "Both abroad and here with Javi I have my talks. It helps me a lot, it helps me to see another perspective of everything that happens here. It's a pleasure to have him." Munoz also thanked his teammates, saying they were "a fundamental pillar" in keeping him motivated.
Liverpool's World Cup Presence
Munoz is one of only three Liverpool players still at the World Cup, alongside Alisson Becker (Brazil) and Alexis Mac Allister (Argentina). Several Reds players were eliminated in the round of 32: Florian Wirtz (Germany), Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, and Cody Gakpo (Netherlands) lost on penalties, while Alexander Isak (Sweden) was beaten 3-0 by France. Alisson's Brazil have advanced to the last 16, and Mac Allister's Argentina are expected to join them after facing Cape Verde on Friday.
Spain topped Group H after wins over Saudi Arabia and Uruguay and a draw with Cape Verde. They now face Austria for a place in the last 16.
