A Return That Raises More Questions Than Answers

Lamine Yamal’s call-up has reignited the debate surrounding Spain’s national team. Officially, the Barcelona winger has been dealing with pubalgia that sidelined him for several matches. Yet his inclusion by Luis de la Fuente sparks doubts.

The 17-year-old recently played minutes with painkillers, fueling speculation: is he truly fit, or is he being exposed unnecessarily? It's a fact that note that managing young talents always carries risks, but the timing of the call-up alongside Hansi Flick’s criticisms adds a power play layer that cannot be ignored.

Flick vs. De la Fuente: A Clash of Authority

Hansi Flick didn’t hold back: “It’s not protecting players when they arrive in pain and play over 70 minutes.” De la Fuente responded sharply: “I always tell the truth. These were normal discomforts, and nothing was hidden.”

This exchange suggests the controversy is not only medical but strategic. Some experts believe De la Fuente might be asserting authority over Barcelona and Flick, emphasizing that decisions about Yamal lie with the national team, not the club. This tension could have consequences for Euro 2026 preparations and the 2026 World Cup, especially for a player as vital as Yamal.

Injury or Tactical Move: The Risk for a Young Talent

Barcelona’s concerns are real. Yamal’s repeated matches and exposure could aggravate his pubalgia and impact long-term performance. The national team insists the risk is minimal.

Probably the call-up may serve a dual purpose: ensuring Yamal is available for crucial qualifiers while sending a clear message to clubs like Barcelona about the federation’s authority. While strategically effective, this approach carries risks for a player still developing physically and mentally.

Spain, Yamal, and the Road Ahead

Spain faces a dilemma: protect a young star or prioritize immediate results. Yamal is a key piece on the road to the 2026 World Cup, but the controversy over his fitness could create media pressure and psychological strain.

Beyond the injury itself, the situation exposes a structural conflict between clubs and federations: sporting decisions versus political control. While Luis de la Fuente defends his choice, Barcelona and Hansi Flick watch cautiously, concerned for the player’s wellbeing and future performance.