Barcelona teen sensation Lamine Yamal spared from Spain duty for now

By SABC Sport
10th October 2023

In the La Liga clash between FC Barcelona and Granada, an unexpected subplot emerged when Lamine Yamal found himself nursing an injury.

However, this minor setback carries significant implications for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

Yamal's discomfort, though not grave, raised concerns about his fitness for the impending international break. As the curtains closed on the Granada encounter, which ended 2-2 on Sunday, the international spotlight fell upon the teenage prodigy, not just as a rising star for Barcelona but also as a potential asset for Spain.

Cognizant of his uncertain allegiance, the Spanish football federation swiftly ushered Yamal into their national team camp, recognizing the gravity of their claim on the young talent's future.

Nonetheless, Barcelona's influence over their prized gem remained palpable. SPORT reports reveal that after comprehensive medical evaluations by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), Yamal is set to return to the Nou Camp this Tuesday. In a commendable show of priority for player welfare, the RFEF, in collaboration with Barcelona, decided to exempt the budding star from international duty.

The decision means that Yamal will miss Spain's crucial encounters against Scotland and Norway as they strive to secure their berth in EURO 2024. This move underscores the nation's commitment to nurturing the teenager's long-term health and potential.

The road ahead for Yamal in the Spanish national colours is an exciting one. Currently, he stands just shy of completing four appearances for Spain, a milestone that will bind his international allegiance exclusively to the Spanish squad. This development would render him ineligible for his other option, Morocco.

The Spanish football federation exhibits unwavering faith in Yamal's commitment to Spain's cause. While the coveted milestone remains on the horizon, the federation remains optimistic about the prospect of Yamal reaching it during the next international break in November. Spain's fixture list then includes clashes against Cyprus and Georgia, but every decision regarding his selection will be made in collaboration with Barcelona.

As Spain brace for their forthcoming matches, they will do so without replacing Yamal in the squad. Bryan Zaragoza is set to step into the youngster's shoes, albeit temporarily, with the constraint of adhering to the 23-player limit for match registration.