Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has expressed both surprise and frustration after learning that Lamine Yamal had undergone a surprise groin operation without the prior knowledge or involvement of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
The 18-year-old Barcelona winger’s procedure took place without notification to Spanish medical staff, sparking criticism from the RFEF. The federation said they only received a medical report late that night (10:40 p.m.) detailing Yamal’s treatment and advising the player to rest for 7–10 days.
This development led the RFEF to make a quick decision as Yamal was dropped from Spain’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey. The federation stressed that player health, safety and well-being remain a top priority in their decision-making process.
“The point is that these things happen outside the federation, that’s how it is, that’s how it happens, you have to accept it…,” De la Fuente told Radio Nacional de Espana (RNE). “I don’t think it’s very normal.
“Obviously (surprised), like everyone else you don’t know, you haven’t heard anything, you don’t know any details, and then they tell you, I insist, and there’s a health issue on top of that, so you’re surprised.”
Yamal is dealing with an ongoing groin problemwhich has seen him miss five games for Barcelona already this season. The recurrence of that injury and recent medical intervention have added to concerns about his readiness for international duty.
Despite his injury setbacks, Yamal has maintained his impressive form for Barcelona, scoring six goals and providing six assists in just 11 appearances in all competitions this season. His absence is a significant blow to Spain’s attacking options in these crucial qualifiers.
Spain currently top Group E in World Cup qualifying having won all four matches so far. They have scored 15 goals and have yet to concede.
The team will travel to Tbilisi on Saturday for a game against Georgia, followed by a home game in Seville against Turkey on Tuesday. Both matches are critical as Spain look to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup finals.
Under the qualifying scenario, Spain will advance to the final if they beat Georgia and Turkey fail to beat Bulgaria, or if Spain draws and Turkey loses their match. These circumstances put more emphasis on the upcoming matches as the national team overcomes Yamal’s absence.
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Published on:
November 12, 2025
