Young winger Lamine Yamal has been released from the Spain national football team squad ahead of upcoming World Cup qualifying matches after undergoing a medical procedure for a groin issue.
The 18-year-old FC Barcelona talent underwent a radio-frequency operation on Monday— the same day Spain’s training camp began. The procedure was performed without prior notification to the national team’s medical staff, who only received the details late Monday evening when a report recommended 7-10 days of rest.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) expressed surprise and concern over the lack of communication and cited player health and safety as the reason for his withdrawal. “The Medical Services of the RFEF wish to express their surprise and concern… this procedure was carried out without prior communication…,” the federation stated.
Spain currently tops Group E with four wins from four matches and will face Georgia in Tbilisi and Turkey in Seville in the coming days. Yamal’s absence will be felt, but the federation appears aligned in prioritising his recovery.
With Yamal now sidelined for at least a week, Barcelona and Spain will hope his return is smooth and does not hamper his promising start this season.
