Dean Huijsen believes Spain must prove they deserve to qualify for the 2026 World Cup despite winning the Euros in 2024.

Spain picked up their third European Championship title since 2008 after impressive performances from Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Pedri throughout the tournament.

Huijsen has since broken into Luis de la Fuente's squad after a standout campaign with Bournemouth last season.

The centre-back, who moved to Real Madrid in May, attempted (1,601) and completed (1,348) more passes than any other player born in or after 2005 in the Premier League last season, while also making the most progressive carries (276).

La Roja begin their qualifying campaign with trips to Bulgaria and Turkiye, and Huijsen insisted they cannot underestimate their opponents.

"We can't take a win for granted because these are two tough away games," Huijsen told RNE.

"We have to prove we deserve to qualify, and I think we will."

Spain followed up their European triumph with a strong Nations League campaign, which saw them lose to Portugal in the final on penalties.

Like Huijsen, head coach De la Fuente is not anticipating a straightforward qualifying campaign for next summer's tournament.

"This is a qualifying campaign, and it is very difficult," said De la Fuente.

"Italy have missed two World Cups recently. There are a lot of steps to take before getting near the final. Let's focus on getting there and get the job done."

Spain travel to face Bulgaria on Thursday in what will be the first meeting between the two nations since 2002, and the first on Bulgarian soil.