Luis de la Fuente has dismissed Spanish media reports suggesting Lamine Yamal was treated differently when linking up with Spain, insisting the late arrival concern is down to medical management rather than preferential treatment.
The winger did not travel with the squad for Thursday’s Nations League match against the Czech Republic. Spain said the decision was linked to discomfort and inflammation in his right knee following Barcelona’s La Liga win over Atletico Madrid, with Yamal staying in Barcelona to work with the club’s medical staff.
Speaking after the controversy surfaced, de la Fuente underlined that Yamal’s participation timeline is being determined by his condition. He said: ‘The recovery is going well and we believe he will be with us on Friday.’
Luis de la Fuente, Spain manager, said:
"I decided that, to avoid the trip, it would be better for him to stay at home and continue treatment with his club,"
"Lamine [Yamal] doesn't have any special privileges. We would have done this for any other player. What hurts me most is the lying, the lack of rigour, the absence of truthfulness and the fabrication. I can't stand people who try to deceive you and lie."
Medical reasons, not extra access
The row centres on why Yamal did not report with the rest of the group immediately, sparking suggestions he had been given ‘special privileges’. De la Fuente’s stance puts the emphasis firmly on workload management and treatment, reflecting the scrutiny around Yamal’s heavy involvement for both club and country.
Yamal has been central to Barcelona’s attacking output again this season, with 13 goals and 12 assists in 16 appearances. Last season, he played 45 matches, and he has already featured 14 times for Spain in 2026.
That volume matters, because Spain’s current squad planning looks set to be shaped by whether he can manage his knee issue without risking a longer setback.
Expected back for England
Spain also face another late-integration situation, with Real Sociedad captain Mikel Oyarzabal expected to join the squad late as he recovers from flu and after welcoming his second child.
For Yamal, the immediate focus is the Nations League run-in. De la Fuente’s comments point to him being available for Sunday’s match against England at 19:45 GMT, provided his knee responds as expected between now and Friday.
With Spain aiming for continuity after key players missed time, his return timetable will be watched closely by supporters, particularly as the squad looks to balance performance with protection against further injury.
