Barcelona and Spain Clash Over Lamine Yamal's Fitness Management

Rising Tensions Over Yamal's Fitness

Recent reports indicate that tensions are resurfacing between FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team concerning the fitness management of Lamine Yamal. The 18-year-old prodigy has been struggling with persistent pubalgia issues, complicating the relationship between his club and the national team.

Barcelona's medical staff has been carefully monitoring Yamal's playing time for several weeks to prevent any aggravation of his injury. The club is advocating for a recovery period to ensure his health improves, while Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente, appears to have a differing opinion.

Concerns About Injury Relapse

Barcelona's worries stem from Yamal's current physical state, fearing a relapse similar to earlier in the season. This situation previously led to tensions when former Spain coach Hansi Flick expressed dissatisfaction after Yamal returned from the national team's September camp with a worsened injury, having played over 150 minutes while not fully fit. Although the friction between Flick and de la Fuente has diminished, communication regarding Yamal's workload remains limited.

Despite Barcelona's preference for Yamal to take a break, he has started every match since the October international break, accumulating 317 minutes on the field. De la Fuente's position is straightforward: if Yamal is fit to play for Barcelona, even in crucial matches like El Clasico and the Champions League, he should also be available to contribute to Spain's World Cup qualification efforts.

Upcoming Decisions on Yamal's National Team Call-Up

The decision regarding Yamal's inclusion in Spain's upcoming matches against Georgia and Turkey will likely hinge on his performance and playing time in the next club match against Club Brugge. All eyes are on how Flick will manage Yamal's minutes during that crucial game.