Lamine Yamal gets no special treatment, says Luis de la Fuente
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente says Lamine Yamal stayed with Barcelona to treat knee inflammation before the Czech Republic clash and denies any favouritism.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente addressed the situation surrounding Lamine Yamal at his press conference ahead of the meeting with the Czech Republic. The Barcelona winger has not yet reported to the national team camp, a decision that has sparked plenty of debate.
Knee problem keeps Yamal at his club
De la Fuente revealed that Yamal is dealing with inflammation in his knee. The coaching staff preferred that the teenager remain at home and continue working with his club rather than travel straight away. According to the coach, Yamal will link up with the squad on Friday if he is sufficiently fit.
De la Fuente rejects favouritism claims
Some critics suggested the youngster was being handled differently from his teammates, but the Spain boss firmly dismissed that idea. "Yamal is not receiving any special privilege," he said. "If another player had been in the same situation, we would have made exactly the same call."
The coach also hit back at those commenting without knowing the facts, describing it as one of the saddest and most regrettable things anyone can do. He insisted that every player in the Spain squad is treated in the same way.
All eyes now turn to whether Yamal recovers in time to join La Roja on Friday, a question that matters to both Spain and Barcelona supporters.
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