There is a lot happening just before the International break in the Spanish squad, and this is not on the field. The Spain National team boss, Luis de la Fuente, has his say on Lamine Yamal’s exit from the national team. Lamine was in the squad, but the team gave him a green light to withdraw his name from the team due to an injury.
Spain is basically in Group D of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. They have won all of their four matches are have 12 points on board. Spain plays Georgia on 15th November and Turkey on the 18th November. They almost have one foot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification race. They have a good goal difference, as if they defeat Georgia, their place is almost confirmed, and if Turkey loses, then their place is guaranteed.
It is fair to say that Barcelona and Spain boss Luis de la Fuente’s relations have not been that great since the last international break. The reason for that was that Lamine Yamal was given painkillers and played international matches. This resulted in the player getting an injury and being out of action for several weeks.
Lamine had to go under treatment, and when Luis de la Fuente came to know, he was surprised. Things again did not look good between the club and Luis de la Fuente. Eventually, Luis de la Fuente spoke: he said that he personally had a talk with Lamine Yamal in the morning as well as the evening. Yamal wanted to help the team and stay. He also spoke that he understands the player his young and did not want to risk his injury.
“He wanted to stay; he’s completely dedicated to the national team. We have constant communication with the players, especially when they’re injured. I tried to reassure him; he was worried, he’s very young. This sport is extremely risky.
“There’s no conflict. Everyone has their own interests, which we need to understand, and they all lead to the same point. Everyone wants to have a good season, and our objectives are aligned; we have to understand that.
“We always work closely with the clubs, prioritizing health. But just as they play for their clubs, they have to play for the national team. I don’t know any player who doesn’t want to come to the national team; quite the opposite, they get angry when they’re not there. Just as I respect Barcelona’s decisions, I ask that mine be respected.
Later, he also made it clear that he does not have any conflict with the player and the club. The national team always wants to work with the club, and the main priority is the health of the player. Luis de la Fuente will respect Barcelona’s decision, and they should also respect his. Lamine will now be in Barcelona to begin his recovery process. He will also get a rest for 7-10 days.
