Lamine Yamal Cleared to Play as Spain Prepares for England Clash
After several days recovering in Barcelona, the young star has received encouraging news, and Luis de la Fuente has confirmed his plans for the decisive clash against England.
Good news for the Spain national team. Lamine Yamal will rejoin the squad on Friday, November 13, after recovering from the right knee discomfort that kept him out of Spain's 2-0 victory over Czechia in the UEFA Nations League.
Head coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed the Barcelona forward's return following the victory in Prague and assured that he is fit enough to feature in Sunday's match against England.
The coach explained that the 19-year-old has made good progress in recent days and, barring any setbacks, will be able to train with his teammates on Friday at Spain's national team training complex in Las Rozas.
What Happened to Lamine Yamal?
The forward suffered a heavy blow to his right knee during his recent commitments with Barcelona, causing inflammation and fluid buildup in the joint.
Although the injury was not considered serious, the medical teams of the Catalan club and the Spanish national team agreed that he should remain in Barcelona to continue his recovery and avoid unnecessary travel.
Over the past several days, Lamine Yamal worked with Barcelona's physiotherapists at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, receiving treatment and completing specific exercises to regain full fitness.
The decision allowed the forward to rest during the match against Czechia and focus on arriving in the best possible condition for the encounter with England.
The Controversy Over His Absence
Lamine Yamal's delayed arrival also sparked criticism of both the player and the national team coach, particularly over the decision to allow him to recover at Barcelona's facilities rather than remain with his international teammates.
De la Fuente responded firmly and rejected suggestions that the young attacker had received special treatment.
"Lamine doesn't have any privileges. We would have done the same for any other player," the coach explained, emphasizing that the decision was made jointly by the medical staffs of both organizations.
The Spain manager also made it clear that he personally authorized the forward to stay in Barcelona. His priority was to avoid unnecessary risks and ensure that Yamal would be ready for the next international fixture.
Spain Welcomes Back Two Key Players
Alongside Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal will also rejoin the squad on Friday following the birth of his second child.
Both players will be available to Luis de la Fuente for the Sunday, November 15, clash against England at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid.
The match will determine the top spot in their UEFA Nations League group. Spain enters the fixture three points ahead of England and needs only a draw to finish first, with both teams having already secured qualification for the quarterfinals.
Lamine Yamal's recovery provides an important boost for Spain, giving the team one of its most dangerous attacking weapons back ahead of a demanding encounter.
Key Takeaways From Lamine Yamal's Return
- Recovery: The forward has overcome his right knee discomfort after several days of treatment in Barcelona.
- No special treatment: Luis de la Fuente defended the medical decision and insisted he would have handled the situation the same way with any other player.
- Available against England: Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal will rejoin the squad ahead of the match that will decide the group winner.
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Lamine Yamal Nasraoui Ebana
Spain
