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Spain FA expresses 'surprise and concern' over Yamal's secret procedure
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) released Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal from the national squad on Tuesday after discovering he underwent an undisclosed groin procedure the same day Spain's training camp began. The 18-year-old, a standout at Euro 2024, had been selected for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey on 15 and 18 November.
In a statement, the RFEF said it learned of the "invasive radiofrequency procedure"-performed to address pubic discomfort-only at 13:47 on 10 November, hours after the surgery. Detailed medical reports, including a 7-10 day rest recommendation, arrived later that night at 22:40. The federation emphasized that its medical staff had received "no prior communication" about the intervention.
"The medical services of the RFEF wish to express their surprise and concern upon learning... that Lamine Yamal had undergone [the procedure] earlier that same morning."
Royal Spanish Football Federation statement
Manager de la Fuente calls situation 'abnormal'
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente described the episode as unprecedented in his career, telling reporters: "I had never experienced a situation like that. You don't know, you haven't heard anything... then they tell you about health issues. You're left surprised." He maintained that player welfare remains the "top priority" but noted the lack of transparency created operational challenges.
To replace Yamal, de la Fuente called up Jorge de Frutos of Rayo Vallecano. Spain currently leads Group E in qualifying, holding a three-point advantage over second-place Turkey with two matches remaining.
Latest chapter in Barcelona-RFEF tensions
The incident reignites friction between Barcelona and the Spanish FA, which flared in September when Hansi Flick, then-Barcelona manager, accused Spain of mishandling Yamal's fitness. The winger had joined the national team with a minor groin issue, aggravated it during international duty, and subsequently missed four club games.
De la Fuente countered at the time that Spain's medical team follows strict protocols, arguing that if a player is cleared by their club, they may be considered for selection. Similar disputes arose in October when Barcelona publicly declared Yamal injured hours after his national team call-up; the RFEF insisted the player reported no issues upon arrival.
Barça defends communication, cites 'responsible' approach
Sources within Barcelona told media outlets that the club's medical staff maintain "constant communication" with the RFEF and acted "responsibly"-in coordination with Yamal-to prioritize his recovery. The RFEF has not publicly addressed these claims.
Yamal's recent form and Euro 2024 triumph
Yamal, who turned 18 in July, scored in Barcelona's 4-2 La Liga victory over Celta Vigo on Sunday before being substituted in stoppage time. His breakthrough season included a pivotal role in Spain's Euro 2024 title win, where he became the youngest player to score in a European Championship final.
The latest controversy underscores the growing scrutiny over player workloads amid packed domestic and international schedules. Spain's qualifiers against Georgia (15 November) and Turkey (18 November) will proceed without their youngest star, as Yamal begins his prescribed recovery period.
