Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has responded to criticism and justified the inclusion of Lamine Yamal in the squad for the upcoming matches against Georgia and Turkey, corresponding to the final two fixtures of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The coach emphasized that the Barcelona winger “is in perfect condition” and that his selection is based solely on sporting merit.

“His coach has said he’s fit to play, and we’re happy that he’s recovered his footballing level. These matches are crucial, and we need our best players,” said De la Fuente, who made it clear that the groin injury that had affected the young winger “is now completely behind him.”

A United Squad Despite the Controversy

The coach also addressed the recent on-field argument between Lamine Yamal and Dani Carvajal during the Clásico between Real Madrid and Barcelona, downplaying any suggestion of tension within the national team. “There’s no problem at all. I prefer to remember the image of them hugging after the goal against Croatia at the Euros. We’re a very united team, with a family-like atmosphere,” he stated.

De la Fuente assured that the squad environment is “healthy and professional,” and that the players “know how to separate club rivalries from the responsibility of wearing Spain’s shirt.”

Regarding the supposed lack of communication with Hansi Flick, Barcelona’s coach, De la Fuente was blunt: “We haven’t spoken again, but there’s no need. Everything is clear, and everyone knows their role. We’ll meet at some point, and if there’s something to discuss, it will be done naturally.”

New Faces and Returns in the Squad

The call-up for the matches against Georgia and Turkey includes several key returns. Dean Huijsen, Fabián Ruiz, Fermín López, and Lamine Yamal are all back after recovering from injuries, while Pablo Fornals returns to the national team for the first time since 2021.

Notable absences include Álvaro Morata, left out for the second consecutive time, as well as injured players Pedri, Gavi, Rodri Hernández, Dani Carvajal, and Nico Williams.

De la Fuente explained that every call-up is made “based on the players’ current form and the needs of the team.” He also stressed the importance of carefully managing Lamine Yamal’s development, as the 18-year-old continues to mature as both a player and a person.

“It’s a natural process. At his age, every player is still growing — both as a human being and as a footballer. Our duty, along with his club, is to guide and protect him,” concluded the coach, convinced that the young talent will be a key part of La Roja’s near future.