FC Barcelona is navigating a delicate episode surrounding Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old prodigy whose recurring pubalgia has once again set off alarms at both club and national team level. In an effort to slow the progression of this chronic condition, Barcelona authorized a medical procedure that unexpectedly triggered conflict with the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and ultimately led to his removal from the squad for the crucial matches against Georgia and Turkey in the race toward the 2026 World Cup.

Barça’s intention was straightforward: reduce pain and allow Lamine to continue progressing without taking unnecessary risks. What actually happened — and how the Federation interpreted it — reopened the debate over how young elite players should be physically managed.

What Procedure Did Lamine Yamal Undergo?

The RFEF stated that the winger was subjected to an “invasive radiofrequency procedure” to treat his pubic discomfort. It isn’t a traditional surgical operation, but it is a technique requiring millimetric precision and specialized personnel.

The method uses controlled electrical current delivered through needles guided by X-ray or ultrasound, targeting the nerves responsible for transmitting pain.

The goal is to modulate or interrupt those nerve signals. There are two types:

• Conventional radiofrequency, which uses heat to reduce nerve transmission.
• Pulsed radiofrequency, which doesn’t destroy the nerve but regulates the pain signals.

Both are outpatient procedures, meaning the patient — Lamine in this case — can return to daily activity within hours.

The treatment was carried out by a Belgian specialist who traveled to Barcelona to work alongside Dr. Ricard Pruna, the first team’s head physician. According to internal sources, the decision was made to give the winger quick, effective relief while carefully managing his physical load in the coming weeks.

Why Was the Spanish National Team Upset?

The RFEF argues that, while the treatment is allowed, it deviates from the protocols the national team typically follows with players who are injured or dealing with persistent discomfort.

The key issue:
Barcelona did not coordinate the procedure with Spain’s medical staff beforehand.

Within the Federation, this was interpreted as a lack of communication and a breakdown in the collaborative medical process usually expected between club and country.

The consequence was immediate:
Lamine Yamal was removed from the squad, and the Federation’s irritation has created far more noise than anyone anticipated.

What Comes Next for Lamine Yamal?

Pain relief after this type of treatment is typically significant, but Barcelona insists that the long-term plan remains crucial: physiotherapy, core strengthening, and strict load management.

Pubalgia is notoriously unpredictable, and even with improvement, it demands absolute discipline.

A conflict is now on the table —
with the Federation calling for better coordination and Barcelona focused on protecting the crown jewel of their future… even if it means creating new tensions along the way.