‘No tension over Lamine Yamal’ – Dani Olmo defends Barcelona-Spain handling of winger’s injury

Dani Olmo has denied any dressing room friction over Lamine Yamal’s injury, insisting both Barcelona and Spain are aligned in prioritising the young winger’s wellbeing.

The 27-year-old midfielder told Mundo Deportivo that speculation about conflict is exaggerated, stressing that the club and national team share a common goal: ensuring Yamal returns fully fit.

The 18-year-old Barcelona star, who is of Moroccan and Equatoguinean descent, has recently undergone an “invasive radiofrequency procedure” to address pubic discomfort.

The timing of the treatment, coinciding with Spain’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey, reignited debates about his availability and the management of his workload between club and country.

Olmo, a close teammate of Yamal, downplayed concerns about tension, emphasising that the discussions surrounding the injury are handled professionally.

“I don’t think we experience that much tension from within. In the end, both the club and the national team always look out for what’s best for the player, and I haven’t seen any problems on either side,” he said.

He added that Yamal’s absence from training or matches due to injury should not raise alarm.

“Ultimately, both sides want what’s best for the player. If Lamine isn’t at 100% right now and hasn’t been able to be, then there’s no problem. Lamine is a very important player for both Barça and the national team, and we need him at 100%, and if he’s not, he’s not.”

Olmo acknowledged Barcelona’s high-profile nature often fuels speculation.

“Barca always generates a lot of talk, both inside and outside the club. But, as I’ve already said, it’s not something that worries us, nor do we feel that tension that might be perceived from the outside. Inside, everything is completely normal, always looking out for the player’s best interests.”