Barcelona president says it’s only natural the “genius” teenager was selected but urged caution over his playing time
Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has been called up yet again to the Spain squad amid concerns over the teenager’s physical condition.
Yamal joins other club teammates Pau Cubarsi, Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres and Fermin Lopez for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey. Spain face Georgia in Tbilisi on 15 November before playing Turkey in Seville four days later.
There was an exchange of words two months ago between Barcelona manager Hansi Flick and Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, after Flick accused the national side of failing to take care Yamal.
The 18-year-old has been managing a groin injury for several weeks now, an issue that he first picked up on international duty, with Flick saying he had been given more minutes than was appropriate for him. This week there were suggestions that Barcelona would prefer to see the youngster rested over the international break.
Nevertheless, club president Joan Laporta said he was proud to see Yamal selected, although he urged Spain to be cautious with the teenager’s workload.
“He’s making a huge effort with his pubalgia,” said Laporta. “He’s a genius and a committed player. Lamine to the national team? It’s recognition. He’s the best in the world in his position, so it’s normal that he’s called up.
“I’d like him to manage his playing time, because Spain is practically qualified. He was furious in Bruges because we didn’t win, and he played a fantastic game.”
De la Fuente dismissed any concerns about Yamal’s fitness.
“The answer is obvious,” the Spain coach. “I think he’s in perfect condition. His coach said he was fit to play football. He’s regaining his form, and we’re happy about that. We have a lot at stake, and we want to have our best players with us.”
Spain could seal qualification for the 2026 World Cup with a win in Tbilisi, which might then allow De la Fuente to rotate in the second fixture against Turkey.
The national team boss also addressed reports of tension between Yamal and Dani Carvajal following their heated exchange at the end of last month’s clásico. He rejected talk of a rift within the squad.
“We’re very fortunate to manage these players,” said De la Fuente. “They’re very easy to get along with. I’ll always remember Lamine hugging Dani the day he scored against Croatia. We’re like a big family here, there are no problems.”
