Spain Unveils Strategic Blueprint to Protect Injured Wonderkid Lamine Yamal

Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente has expressed confidence regarding Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal's physical condition following his inclusion in the November international roster.

De la Fuente's deployment of Yamal throughout this campaign has created tension with Barcelona boss Hansi Flick, who openly criticized the Spanish coach for inadequately safeguarding Yamal after the youngster returned from September's international duty with a groin problem that persists to this day.

Yamal had to pull out of October's squad due to a recurrence of the same concern but has featured in all five of Barcelona's matches since then, leading De la Fuente to conclude that the 18-year-old is sufficiently fit to represent his country once more.

"Observing his recent performance, he appears to be in excellent condition," De la Fuente commented about Yamal. "His manager confirmed he was available for selection. He's returning to the form we've always known, which is encouraging.

"We face two crucial fixtures ahead, and it's essential we have our strongest squad available.

De la Fuente: Crucial to Guide Yamal's Progress

Yamal's groin ailment, officially identified as pubalgia, has generated significant worry among personnel at both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

Although the condition isn't particularly severe on its own, it represents a potential long-term challenge that could affect Yamal throughout his playing career. Surgical intervention has been discussed as a possibility, though Yamal seemed to dismiss such suggestions when recently asked about his situation.

"This is part of natural development," stated De la Fuente. "He's only 18. Any footballer at this age would still be maturing physically.

"It's about supporting him, assisting him, working with his club and everyone involved in his care. The club will provide guidance and direction, as will we at the national federation."

Spain's upcoming schedule includes their remaining World Cup qualifying matches against Georgia and Türkiye. De la Fuente's team hasn't yet secured first place in their group, maintaining only a three-point advantage over their final opponents with two fixtures left to play.