Spain national football team coach Luis de la Fuente publicly criticized FC Barcelona for its handling of Lamine Yamal’s recent medical procedure and subsequent withdrawal from the national squad, while asserting the federation’s player welfare priorities.
De la Fuente stated he was “surprised” by the circumstances surrounding Yamal’s departure, noting the player underwent a medical procedure on the same day the national team assembled. He questioned Barcelona’s communication regarding the issue.
“What happened was exactly what was communicated by the Federation. But they should have said that there was an idea to proceed [with the treatment],” De la Fuente told Spanish media. “Why didn’t they? Ask Barcelona. It is, at least, surprising.”
The coach confirmed he has spoken personally with Yamal, describing the young player as “extremely sad and hurt” by the situation. Yamal had expressed a strong desire to play in upcoming national team matches and achieve success with his club.
De la Fuente vehemently denied any “mistreatment” by the Spanish Football Federation. He emphasized that the priority is always the well-being of the player.
“Nothing could be further from the truth. The priority here is the person, the footballer,” he said. “We don’t take risks with anyone because we prioritize the player.”
He added that former players understand common medical practices like taking an anti-inflammatory. De la Fuente also castigated what he termed “lack of knowledge and ignorance,” along with “bad faith.”
“Barça wants to defend its footballer, and we, the Federation, do too,” he affirmed. De la Fuente underscored Yamal’s keenness to represent his country, stating that anyone claiming otherwise is “lying or has ulterior motives.”