Spain's De La Fuente on Yamal: knee problem, enough lies

The head coach of Spain, Luis de la Fuente, held a press conference on the eve of the match against the Czech Republic to explain why Lamine Yamal left the national team camp and returned to Barcelona, stating that the youngster suffers from a knee inflammation with fluid buildup.

Knee inflammation and medical decision

The Spanish medical team, in collaboration with Barcelona's, assessed the situation and decided not to send Yamal on the trip to Prague, sending him home to train with the club. De la Fuente emphasized that no preferential treatment was granted; they would have acted the same way for any other player.

The coach added that lies, the lack of rigor and fabrications were the most painful part for him, and he deemed it necessary to reveal more than necessary to bring the truth to the public.

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De la Fuente then stated that Yamal could rejoin the squad for the match against England, scheduled for Friday, saying he had spoken with him both yesterday and today and had observed good progress and a positive recovery.

Finally, the head coach praised midfielder Martin Zubimendi, calling him the second best player in the world in his position after Rodri, and goalkeeper Unai Simon, described as the best goalkeeper and captain in the world, highlighting the luck of having them in the team.