Lamine Yamal’s absence for Barcelona’s game against Newcastle United later today is a massive blow, one that could have been easily avoided had the Spanish Football Federation shown a little more concern for his situation during the international break.
Despite being aware that the player is facing discomfort, Luis de la Fuente and Co. preferred to give the teenage star painkiller injections so he could feature in games against Bulgaria and Turkey, something that aggravated his injury.
Hansi Flick, in fact, was very curt in his criticism of the Spanish federation for mismanaging Yamal’s situation.
“He played for the national team despite discomfort. He played 75-78 minutes with discomfort and without training between matches. And that’s not looking after the players,” he said.
Barcelona officials speak
Ahead of the executives’ lunch with officials of Newcastle United before the game later tonight, Barcelona president Joan Laporta was faced by media reporters.
Laporta was asked to give his stance on Flick’s comments about the poor handling of Lamine Yamal by the RFEF.
“He is absolutely right,” the club president said, making it clear that he aligned with the manager on the situation.
BARCELONA, SPAIN - AUGUST 10: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona looks on during the Joan Gamper Trophy match between FC Barcelona and Como1907 at Estadi Johan Cruyff on August 10, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Lamine Yamal is out injured. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Also facing the media at the time was Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste. When asked to comment on the same topic, however, he preferred to play it safe and not say anything controversial.
“This is a topic that Deco deals with directly, and I have nothing to say. Wishing Lamine a speedy recovery.”
The vice president was also asked about the UEFA Champions League later in the day and how Andreas Christensen spoke on the need for hunger for the competition in the team.
“This hunger must be turned into a dream. All the culés and the players too, know that the Champions League is the most important title that we play this season, but we have to turn hunger into a dream, not pressure,” he said.
Finally, he spoke on Barcelona’s start to the new season so far and what he made of the team’s performances.
“We arrive with great enthusiasm for this match,” Yuste noted.
“The team is excited and eager to have another great season. They get along very well, which makes them a tight-knit group,” he added.
Source: Mundo Deportivo