Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has been ruled out of Spain’s World Cup qualifying matches against Georgia and Bulgaria after suffering a recurrence of his groin injury.
The 18-year-old winger, who only returned to action in Wednesday’s 2-1 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, is expected to be sidelined for up to three weeks, the club confirmed on Friday. Yamal had previously missed four matches due to the same injury, sparking frustration from Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, who blamed his September international duty for aggravating the problem.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, however, downplayed any tension with Flick, insisting that there was no conflict between them. “There is no issue with Flick,” De la Fuente told reporters after unveiling his squad for the qualifiers. “I was only surprised by his remarks because he has been a national team coach before and understands the demands. What matters now are the two crucial games we have ahead, we are playing for a place at the World Cup.”
The Spain boss also clarified Yamal’s situation, noting that discomfort after matches is not unusual.
“Our medical staff have explained it, and I have explained it. Nothing more. Did he feel discomfort after the match? Perhaps, but that is normal in football,” he said.
Yamal’s absence raises doubts over his availability for the highly anticipated El Clasico against Real Madrid on October 26.
Spain’s squad will also be without Nico Williams and Dani Carvajal. Williams, who has been sidelined since suffering a groin injury in Athletic Bilbao’s 6-0 win over Turkey, was left out after his club urged caution over his fitness. Meanwhile, Alvaro Morata was omitted following a slow start to the season with Como.
De la Fuente brushed aside concerns, stressing that injuries are part of the game. “The risk in football always exists. If a player is active for his club, he assumes those risks. These are normal situations,” he explained.
Spain, who top Group E with six points from two matches, face Georgia in Elche on October 11 before hosting Bulgaria in Valladolid on October 14.
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