De la Fuente Gives Update On Yamal’s Fitness Ahead Of Crucial Nations League Match

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has expressed optimism that Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal will recover from his knee injury in time for Sunday’s UEFA Nations League encounter against England in Madrid.

The 19-year-old was left out of Spain’s squad for Thursday’s trip to Prague to face the Czech Republic after experiencing discomfort during Barcelona’s 2-1 La Liga victory over Atletico Madrid on Sunday.

Medical examinations conducted in Barcelona reportedly revealed inflammation and fluid in Yamal’s knee, prompting medical personnel to recommend additional rest to prevent the condition from worsening.

Speaking on Wednesday, November 11, De la Fuente explained that the decision to exclude the youngster from the trip to Prague was taken to give him sufficient time to recover before joining the national team.

The Spain manager disclosed that Yamal was undergoing rehabilitation exercises under the supervision of his personal physiotherapist and Barcelona’s medical team, adding that the recovery process was progressing positively.

According to Bush Radio Academy, De la Fuente remains hopeful that the Barcelona forward will join the Spanish national team camp on Friday.

“We believe, I’m optimistic, that on Friday he’ll be with us,” the coach said.

However, Yamal’s participation in Sunday’s meeting with England has not been guaranteed, as his availability will depend on his physical condition after completing the recovery process.

The young forward, who finished third in the October Ballon d’Or voting, remains an important figure for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

Meanwhile, De la Fuente dismissed suggestions that Yamal receives special treatment within the national team, insisting that all players are assessed equally when decisions concerning injuries and fitness are made.

He maintained that Spain would have adopted the same approach with any other player facing a similar medical situation, stressing that Yamal’s omission was solely intended to protect his recovery and fitness.