BARCELONA (SPAIN) (ITALPRESS) – In Spain, the “Yamal case” has exploded. Barcelona’s young star and Spanish international has suffered a relapse of the groin injury that had already sidelined him for four matches. The club confirmed that Yamal will be out for 2–3 weeks, meaning he will definitely miss Sunday’s game against Sevilla as well as Spain’s upcoming fixtures against Georgia (October 11) and Bulgaria (October 14). His absence could even extend further.
Despite the injury, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente had initially included him in his squad list, before the Spanish Federation (RFEF) quickly removed his name. This sparked a polemic between Barça manager Hansi Flick and the national team coach.
Speaking at today’s press conference, the German explained his stance: “The parties involved must understand that I want – and need – to protect my players. If we have any doubts about a player’s condition, we don’t play him. Lamine is feeling much better today, but he is not ready to take the field. These things happen in football and I understand the other side as well, it’s not easy for me or for them. For me, the matter is closed.”
Flick avoided giving a precise date for the 18-year-old’s return but did not hold back on praise: “The whole world knows his extraordinary level. He is one of the most intelligent players even without the ball. I have to be careful when he comes back, to manage his playing time properly.”
As for the possibility of seeing Yamal back in time for the much-anticipated Clásico against Real Madrid on October 26 at the Bernabéu, Flick remained cautious: “We don’t know if he’ll be there. With this type of issue – referring to groin problems – it can take 2, 3, or even 4 weeks. We are working for him to recover in the best possible way, but his condition will have to be constantly monitored.”
– Photo IPA Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
