Spain boss issues Lamine Yamal injury update, hits back at preferential treatment claims: ‘What hurts me the most is the lies’
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Speaking at a press conference earlier today, Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has issued an update on the fitness of Barcelona teenage winger Lamine Yamal.
The La Roja head coach also lashed out at critics who suggested that the 19-year-old superstar was getting preferential treatment following the decision to release him rom the national team camp.
De la Fuente reveals nature of Lamine Yamal’s injury
Lamine was named in the squad for Spain’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Czechia and England.
But it later emerged that he would not take part in the first game against Czechia due to a minor discomfort, leading to him returning to staying with Barcelona rather than joining the Spain camp.
It sparked debate about the young superstar getting preferential treatment from the manager, prompting De la Fuente to clarify what happened and challenge those who had questioned the decision.
“Speaking from a place of ignorance is sad, regrettable. That’s why I’m here to shed some light on the matter,” he began.
Lamine to miss Spain’s game against Czechia. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
De la Fuente confirmed that Yamal was dealing with inflammation in his knee, with fluid also present. After medical staff from Barcelona assessed the situation alongside Spain’s own doctors, the coach decided that the forward should avoid travelling to Prague.
“Lamine is suffering from inflammation in his knee, he has fluid buildup,” he said.
“Our medical staff, along with those of his club, assessed the situation, and I decided that, to avoid this trip, I preferred he stay home training with the club,” he explained.
No preferential treatment towards Lamine
De la Fuente was equally firm when addressing suggestions that the decision reflected Yamal’s status within the national team.
The Spain coach insisted that the same approach would have been taken with any other player in similar circumstances.
“Lamine doesn’t have any special treatment. We would have done this for any other player,” he asserted.
Lamine expected to be available against England. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
De la Fuente was particularly unhappy with the coverage surrounding the withdrawal, saying:
“What hurts me the most is the lies, the lack of rigor, the lack of truthfulness, and the fabrication. That’s why I’ve revealed more than I should have, but it’s the only way for people to know the truth. I can’t stand people who try to deceive you and lie.”
Despite the concerns surrounding his knee, De la Fuente sounded optimistic about the forward’s recovery in time to face England over the weekend.
“I spoke with him yesterday and today. The same goes for Mikel [Oyarzabal]. His progress is good. His recovery is going well, and we believe he’ll be with us on Friday,” he stated.
Source: Mundo Deportivo