De la Fuente left stunned as Lamine Yamal’s secret procedure forces Spain withdrawal

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente says he has never experienced anything like the situation surrounding teenage star Lamine Yamal’s sudden withdrawal from the national team.

The 18-year-old, who has Moroccan and Equatorial Guinean heritage, was released from Spain’s squad after the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) learned he had undergone a minor medical procedure without their prior knowledge.

The decision forced Spain to send him back to Barcelona in accordance with medical protocol.

“There are procedures that happen outside of the Federation. It’s what happens, and you have to accept it,” De la Fuente told reporters.

“I had never experienced a situation like this. I don’t think it’s very normal. Of course, it surprised me, like everyone else. You have no news, you do not know any details, and I insist, with health issues, one is surprised.”

According to reports, Yamal underwent an invasive radiofrequency procedure to treat pubalgia discomfort following Barcelona’s match against Celta Vigo.

In a statement, the RFEF expressed “surprise and discomfort” at the lack of communication, saying it only learned about the operation hours before the start of Spain’s official camp.

The Federation revealed it received a medical report late Monday night recommending seven to ten days of rest for the player.

“Given this situation, and prioritizing the health, safety and well-being of the player at all times, the Royal Spanish Football Federation has made the decision to release the athlete from this call,” the statement read.

The RFEF added that it wished Yamal a “speedy and complete recovery,” while Barcelona is expected to monitor his progress closely before determining his return to training.