Spain-Barcelona War Explodes as Lamine Yamal Controversy Reaches Breaking Point
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has announced Lamine Yamal's absence from the squad for their November international fixtures in a strongly-worded statement criticizing Barcelona.
Relations between Barcelona and the RFEF have been strained since Yamal was found to have a groin problem, subsequently identified as pubalgia, after the September international period. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick clashed verbally with Spain boss Luis de la Fuente regarding what he saw as insufficient protection for the teenage winger.
Yamal missed the October squad due to this injury but was anticipated to rejoin November's selection, with De la Fuente openly stating he had no new worries about the player's condition.
However, the RFEF has now announced Yamal's absence from the squad while seemingly suggesting Barcelona acted secretively to obtain a fresh medical assessment for the winger.
"The Medical Services of the RFEF want to voice their astonishment and dissatisfaction upon discovering at 13:47 on Monday, November 10, the opening day of the official training camp with the national squad, that player Lamine Yamal had received an invasive radiofrequency treatment for his pubic discomfort that very morning," the statement declared.
"This treatment was performed without advance notification to the medical team of the National Squad, with details only becoming known through a report received at 22:40 the previous evening, which recommended rest for 7–10 days.
"In light of this circumstance, and always prioritizing the health, safety and welfare of the player, the Royal Spanish Football Federation has decided to release the athlete from the current selection.
"We are optimistic that he will recover successfully and hope for his swift and complete recovery."
Barcelona Seeks Expert Opinion on Yamal's Condition
Reports of Yamal's absence from the Spain squad emerge following coverage from SPORT and Mundo Deportivo indicating Barcelona had consulted with an international expert for an independent assessment of Yamal's fitness.
Belgian surgeon Ernest Schilders, an expert in pubic and adductor problems, traveled to Barcelona to meet with team physician Ricard Pruna to evaluate Yamal's situation and determine Barcelona's next steps.
The coverage suggests Schilders approved of the club's approach for Yamal, commending medical personnel for identifying the problem early and reducing the risk of lasting complications.
Yamal is anticipated to return to play by the end of the international break. Barcelona welcome Athletic Club, possibly at Camp Nou, on Nov. 22, followed by a visit to Chelsea in the Champions League three days afterward.