The return of Lamine Yamal to the Spanish national team has sparked a new wave of debate among the media and fans. The Barcelona prodigy, just 18 years old, was included by Luis de la Fuente in the squad for matches against Georgia and Turkey, the final fixtures of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The coach’s decision has divided opinion, particularly due to the groin issues that have affected the winger’s season and his recent confrontation with Dani Carvajal during El Clásico.

“He’s in perfect condition. His coach said he’s fit to play, and he’s recovered his footballing level. These are two very important games, and we need to have the best players,” explained De la Fuente at a press conference. With these words, the coach sought to put an end to any controversy regarding Yamal’s physical condition, as the young winger has returned to action for Barça in top form.

De la Fuente Downplays Tension Between Yamal and Carvajal

The young attacker’s call-up was accompanied by questions about his relationship with Dani Carvajal, following their heated exchange during the last Clásico. However, De la Fuente downplayed the incident, describing it as something typical of football’s intensity.

“It’s all perfectly normal. We talk about many things here, and we live together excellently. I’ll stick with the image of Lamine hugging Dani after the goal against Croatia at the Euros. We’re a very united group — there’s no problem,” said the coach, who emphasized that the atmosphere within the squad is “like a family, with total commitment.”

The Spanish manager also revealed that he has not had recent conversations with Hansi Flick, Barcelona’s coach, following their public disagreements in recent weeks. “We haven’t spoken again, but everything is clear. We’ll meet at some point, and if there’s something to discuss, it’ll be handled naturally,” he added.

Youth and Experience in a Key World Cup Qualifying Squad

Spain’s squad combines youthful energy with the experience of established players. Alongside Yamal’s return, Dean Huijsen, Fabián Ruiz, Fermín López, and Pablo Fornals also feature — the latter returning to La Roja for the first time in three years.

Among the absentees are Álvaro Morata, left out for the second consecutive time, and injured players Pedri, Rodri Hernández, Gavi, Dani Carvajal, and Nico Williams. Despite these absences, De la Fuente assured that the group remains strong.

Regarding Lamine Yamal, the coach stressed the importance of supporting his development. “He’s 18 years old and still in the process of maturing and growing. It’s our duty, together with his club, to help him in that human and footballing development.”

La Roja will face Georgia on November 15 in Tbilisi and Turkey on November 18 at La Cartuja Stadium, aiming to secure World Cup qualification — and to prove that Yamal’s call-up is a bet on both the present and the future of Spanish football.