Spain Boss Fires Back with Defiant "Never" Over Lamine Yamal Withdrawal Controversy

Spain's manager Luis de la Fuente states that he has "never" previously encountered a scenario similar to Lamine Yamal's last-minute pullout from national team duties, intensifying the ongoing dispute with Barcelona regarding the young player's physical condition.

The Spanish champions and the national squad have clashed since Yamal sustained a lingering groin problem, medically termed pubalgia, back in September. Hansi Flick expressed clear anger toward De la Fuente for fielding the 18-year-old twice after he had received painkilling shots during that month's international window. The Spain manager remained unmoved by the criticism.

Yamal stepped back from October's squad selection but received another call-up for November's matches. The young winger reported for national duty only to withdraw once more, referencing the same groin problem. Spain issued a pointed statement announcing this decision, with De la Fuente reinforcing his stance.

"This doesn't appear normal to me," he informed RNE. "I've never encountered such circumstances before. These are processes that occur beyond the national team's influence; it's simply what transpires, and we must deal with it.

"I was taken aback like everybody else," De la Fuente continued, ".... you receive no updates or understand any specifics, they inform you, and regarding health issues, one remains bewildered."

Barcelona President Defends Yamal

Barcelona's president Joan Laporta predictably stepped forward to support his star attacker.

"He suffers from pubalgia," Laporta informed Catalunya Ràdio. "It's admirable that he continues playing while recovering. I'm thrilled with his performance. 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's conduct away from football has also faced questioning this season, with several notable incidents drawing excessive attention following a disputed 18th birthday celebration. Barcelona's president fully supported his teenage star.

"He embraces life, he loves football," Laporta maintained. "He shows maturity beyond his years. I have no concerns about his lifestyle. He requires protection and encouragement, from us and his circle. He demonstrates greater maturity than his peers, has experienced much and manages it excellently. He's dedicated and works harder than anyone."