Real Madrid Star Delivers Verdict on Lamine Yamal's Shocking Spain 'Betrayal'
Real Madrid defender Dean Huijsen has spoken up in support of Barcelona's Lamine Yamal following claims from Spain's national team setup that they felt "deceived" by the Catalan side regarding the young player's international participation.
Spain's medical team reportedly wanted to retain Yamal for November's fixtures despite ongoing fitness worries, but La Roja coach Luis de la Fuente permitted the Barcelona sensation to pull out of international service to prevent additional tension.
Yamal's physical condition has created friction between the RFEF—Spain's football federation—and Barcelona following a recurring groin problem he picked up during September's international window. The Catalan outfit blamed Spain for poor management of the 18-year-old's fitness troubles after he featured in both 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches despite receiving painkilling treatments.
The Barcelona talent missed October's international fixtures but received another call-up from La Roja for November's games. Nevertheless, with his fitness problems persisting, he pulled out of the Spain roster on Monday.
Spain's medical personnel have "felt deceived" by Barcelona regarding the Yamal situation and were "extremely frustrated," leading them to suggest the youngster remain with the national squad as he could potentially feature in Spain's second November fixture against Turkey next Tuesday, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
The Yamal matter was predictably raised with Huijsen, who dismissed the controversy. "Lamine is just a regular teenager, he's 18 years old. Sometimes situations get exaggerated," the wise 20-year-old commented to Radio MARCA.
Unexpected Mediator Steps Forward in Yamal Dispute
Nevertheless, seeking to calm relations between the RFEF and Barcelona, De la Fuente chose to disregard his medical staff's recommendations, instead permitting Yamal to withdraw "despite feeling frustrated" by the circumstances himself.
The Spain coach addressed media openly about the unusual nature of the disagreement, with talks between Barcelona and the RFEF occurring privately in efforts to reduce the tension.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has openly supported Yamal throughout the ongoing controversy, declaring: "It's admirable that he's performing during his rehabilitation. I'm thrilled with him. As a player, he's exceptional and requires protection. He hasn't reached his full potential yet. He's the finest in the world at his position."
Yamal will be absent from World Cup qualifying encounters against Georgia and Turkey as Spain seek to secure their spot at next summer's competition, but the break will benefit him before Barcelona's coming matches against Athletic Club and Chelsea following the international period.