Barcelona is expressing fury at the Spanish national team following their handling of young star Lamine Yamal, who returned from international duty with a significant injury.
Barcelona and Spain in Row Over Lamine Yamal Injury
The club confirms Yamal will miss tonight’s La Liga match against Valencia and is doubtful for the Champions League opener against Newcastle.
Manager Hansi Flick did not hide his anger during a press conference, revealing Yamal played through pain for Spain despite prior warnings.
“He went to the national team with pain, didn’t train, had painkillers to play,” Flick stated.
“They were three goals ahead in every match, and he played 79 and 73 minutes. This is not taking care of players”.
Barcelona’s medical staff had informed Spain of Yamal’s acute pain and received assurances he would not be overexerted.
However, coach Luis de la Fuente played the youngster for over 70 minutes in both World Cup qualifiers against Bulgaria and Turkey, despite comfortable leads.
Flick, a former national team coach himself, emphasized the need for better communication between federations and clubs.
He admitted he has not spoken directly with de la Fuente due to language barriers but insisted “the communication could be better”.
The club believes the injury was entirely preventable had Spain exercised caution.
Yamal’s absence presents a significant challenge for Barcelona as they face crucial matches without their emerging talent.
