Spain manager Luis de la Fuente addressed the media after announcing the squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey, seeking to put an end to any controversies surrounding Lamine Yamal.
The young Barcelona winger has been under intense scrutiny following his brief clash with Dani Carvajal during the recent El Clasico against Real Madrid, and questions had also arisen about his physical fitness and relationship within the Spain squad.
De la Fuente, however, made it clear that everything is in order. The coach confirmed that the teenager is fully fit and available for selection, saying,
“Having seen the game the other day, he is fit to play,” referring to Yamal’s appearance in the Champions League against Bruges.
The manager emphasised the importance of having his best players available for these decisive fixtures, adding, “We have two very important games and we need to have our best players.”
No feud with Hansi Flick
Rather than engage in speculation about off-field matters or club rivalries, De la Fuente maintained a calm and composed stance, insisting that his focus remains on Spain’s qualification campaign.
Dani Carvajal of Real Madrid and Lamine Yamal of Barcelona
De la Fuente shared his take on the Yamal-Carvajal feud. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
When asked about his communication with Barcelona boss Hansi Flick, the Spain coach was straightforward, saying,
“I haven’t spoken to Hansi Flick. We’ll talk sometime. There’s nothing to talk about.”
Adopting his characteristic tone of diplomacy, De la Fuente also sought to dispel rumours of any lingering tension between Carvajal and Lamine Yamal.
He insisted that there is no division within the national team dressing room, explaining,
“We talk about many things. The disagreement between them needs to be handled naturally. It’s very easy to get along with them.”.
“I’ll remember the image of Lamine hugging Dani after the goal against Croatia. What happens at their clubs… We don’t have any problems. That doesn’t exist here,” he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo