Fuente condemns criticism of Yamal: sad and deplorable

Luis de la Fuente has reacted strongly to the criticism of Lamine Yamal, which he described as sad and regrettable. The publication invites readers to look at Google more often. This happened during a press conference in Prague. The national coach emphasized that the decision is medically based.

Yamal's absence and medical status

The eighteen‑year‑old forward of FC Barcelona will miss Thursday evening's Nations League match between Spain and the Czech Republic due to a knee injury. Yamal stayed in Barcelona, del Barça, because of an inflammation in his knee, which prevents him from traveling. De la Fuente decided himself not to take Yamal to Prague. He said: “Speaking from ignorance is sad and regrettable. That is why I am here to provide some clarity. Lamine has an inflammation in his knee. Our medical staff examined him and I have decided that, to avoid this trip, it is better that he stays at home training with the club.”

The medical staff of the Spanish federation and of FC Barcelona have jointly confirmed that Yamal must stay at home to recover. De la Fuente has confirmed this medical consensus. According to the trainer, everyone within the Spanish squad is treated equally.

Responses and broader context

In a second statement De la Fuente had to defend Yamal against the rumours surrounding the player. Yamal has knee problems and fluid buildup due to a recent collision in a match.

Spain’s de la Fuente rejects claims of favour for Lamine Yamal

The Spanish national coach stated that there is no preferential treatment for Yamal. The coach opposes the suggestion that Yamal has withdrawn himself. He added: “What hurts me the most is the lie, the lack of accuracy. I oppose that.” De la Fuente described the stories about preferential treatment as myths.

He said: “I am not worried. I am here to clear everything up. We would have done the same with any other player.” Because of Yamal’s absence, Spain must play Thursday without one of its key attackers.

De la Fuente hopes to welcome Yamal back to the squad on Friday, provided he has recovered. Spain now focuses entirely on the clash with the Czech Republic, which takes place on Thursday at 20:45 in Prague. The national coach concluded: “Our focus is entirely on tomorrow’s match. We have to win, and we want to win. That is what we must do.”

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