Sofia Quijada
Spain’s Shock at Yamal’s Procedure
The Spanish Football Association (RFEF) has voiced surprise and concern after learning that Lamine Yamal underwent a groin procedure without prior notice. The 18-year-old Barcelona winger was initially selected for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey on 15 and 18 November, respectively.
Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s manager, admitted he had never encountered a similar situation. ‘You don’t know, you haven’t heard anything, you don’t know any details, and then they tell you about health issues. You’re left surprised,’ he stated.
Yamal had just scored in Barcelona’s 4-2 victory over Celta Vigo on Sunday before being substituted late in the game.
RFEF’s Official Statement
The RFEF released a statement revealing that Yamal underwent an invasive radiofrequency procedure on Monday morning to address discomfort in his pubic area. The federation’s medical staff only learned about this procedure at 22:40 the same day, with a medical recommendation for 7-10 days of rest.
In light of this situation, and with the player’s health, safety, and wellbeing as the top priority, the Royal Spanish Football Federation has decided to release the player from the current squad.
De la Fuente has called up Rayo Vallecano’s Jorge de Frutos to replace Yamal.
Tensions Between Barcelona and RFEF
This latest dispute has further strained relations between Barcelona and the RFEF. Earlier in September, Hansi Flick, Barcelona’s manager, publicly criticized Spain for not adequately caring for their players. Yamal, who joined the national team with a minor groin issue, aggravated it during international duty and subsequently missed four games for Barcelona.
De la Fuente insisted no risks were taken, stating that if a player is fit for his club, he may be considered for the national team. However, tensions resurfaced before the October international break when De la Fuente included Yamal in his squad, only for Barcelona to later clarify that the player was injured. The RFEF maintained that Yamal reported no complaints upon joining the national team.
Sources at Barcelona claim their medical team is in constant communication with the RFEF, emphasizing that the club is acting responsibly to ensure Yamal’s recovery.