Providing an update on his injured stars, De la Fuente indicated that Yamal is progressing well and could be available sooner than initially expected. The coach stated: “These players (Lamine, Mikel Merino, Nico Williams) are making good progress in their recovery. I think they’ll all be available for the first match, but we’ll assess whether it’s worth them playing that game, not so much because of the risk involved, but because our focus goes beyond just the second or third match.”
While the statement may sound positive from Spain’s perspective, it has created anxiety inside the halls of the Camp Nou. It must be remembered that Yamal suffered a biceps femoris injury in his left leg during Barcelona’s victory over Celta Vigo on 22 April and has not featured in a competitive match since that date.