Spain Boss Ignites Controversy Over Lamine Yamal's Injury Saga
Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente has acknowledged that Lamine Yamal wasn't at full fitness during the September international break, though he rejected blame for the injury that kept him out of four games.
Following Yamal's return from Spain duty, Barcelona identified a groin problem, leading Hansi Flick to criticize what he saw as inadequate player protection by the national team. Spanish officials were reportedly shocked by the manager's accusations.
De la Fuente stated he simply "did not care" when the matter was brought up again this week, while still including the Barcelona youngster and 2025 Ballon d'Or finalist in his squad for October's international matches.
"I always speak honestly," De la Fuente explained to media regarding his handling of Yamal during September's camp. "What occurred was that after the game concluded, he experienced some discomfort. But I've never competed without some level of discomfort.
"Nothing significant occurred. Our medical team clarified it, I clarified it. Nothing more to add. Did he experience discomfort following the match? Well, I'm uncertain.
"In our setup, the risk is minimal. Anyone who joins us arrives healthy and fit to participate. When they're sent back, it's because we've decided they cannot remain due to potential risk."
Flick's Yamal Concerns 'Unexpected' Given International Background
De la Fuente wanted to put the disagreement with Flick behind him, expressing surprise at the former Germany coach's lack of understanding.
"There's no dispute with Flick," he confirmed. "I was just taken aback by those comments because he previously managed a national team, and I thought he would show that understanding. That's what catches me off guard, that a former international coach would hold that view. But enough said, everyone expresses their thoughts.
"You realize we have two crucial matches ahead, that we're competing for World Cup qualification. It appears they're being overshadowed while we discuss Flick instead. We're fighting for the World Cup, that's what truly matters. Everything else is secondary. Everyone has spoken their piece, and that's final."
Yamal featured in two matches after recovering from injury, including playing the full 90 minutes in Barcelona's loss to Paris Saint-Germain. De la Fuente intends to consult with the winger before determining his involvement level in upcoming fixtures.
"We communicate with every player, we understand their condition directly," he explained. "When a club notifies us about any player concerns, we evaluate them. We'll monitor how Lamine progresses this weekend and determine his participation level."