Spain’s preparations for their World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey have been disrupted by the withdrawal of Lamine Yamal, with the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) issuing a pointed statement over the circumstances of his absence.
The 18-year-old Barcelona forward, who scored in Sunday’s 4–2 win over Celta Vigo, was due to join Luis de la Fuente’s squad this week. Instead, the RFEF confirmed that he had undergone an “invasive radiofrequency procedure” on his groin earlier the same day, a treatment the federation said had not been disclosed to its medical team in advance.
Lamine Yamal Out of Spain Squad: RFEF Shows Displeasure
In a statement notable for its tone, the RFEF said it learned of the operation only hours before the national camp opened, and described its “surprise and displeasure” at the lack of communication. The procedure, aimed at easing chronic pubic pain, carries a medical recommendation of 7–10 days’ rest.
De la Fuente had earlier described Yamal as being in “perfect condition,” but the federation has now released him from duty “to prioritise the player’s health, safety and well-being.”
Yamal, who became Spain’s youngest-ever international and a central figure in their Euro 2024 triumph, has been managing a persistent groin injury for much of the season. Specialists have called the condition difficult to treat, with rest and physiotherapy regarded as essential.
For now, Spain lose their most precocious talent, and the RFEF has made plain its irritation at being the last to know why.
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