Spain ‘surprised and concerned’ after Lamine Yamal undergoes groin procedure without notification

The Spanish Football Association (RFEF) has expressed “surprise and concern” after learning that Lamine Yamal underwent a groin procedure without their prior knowledge. 

The 18-year-old Barcelona winger was released from the Spain squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey after the national team’s medical staff discovered he had received treatment earlier this week.

According to an official RFEF statement, the medical team was informed at 13:47 on Monday, November 10th, that Yamal had undergone an invasive radiofrequency procedure that same morning to address discomfort in his pubic area. 

The federation stated that they only received a detailed medical report late that night, which advised a 7–10 day rest period. As a result, the Spanish FA decided to release the teenager from the training camp to prioritise his health and recovery.

Yamal featured and scored in Barcelona’s 4–2 victory over Celta Vigo on Sunday before being substituted late in stoppage time. 

His absence from Spain’s squad comes at a crucial point in their qualifying campaign, with the Euro 2024 champions sitting three points clear of Turkey at the top of Group E with two matches remaining.

The incident has once again strained relations between Barcelona and the RFEF, which have been tense in recent months. 

During the September international break, Barça manager Hansi Flick accused Spain of mismanaging Yamal’s fitness after the youngster aggravated a groin issue while on national duty. He subsequently missed four matches for his club.

Similar confusion arose in October when Spain included Yamal in their squad despite Barcelona’s insistence that he was still injured.

Sources close to Barcelona have defended the club’s handling of the latest episode, insisting their medical staff have maintained regular communication with the RFEF and acted responsibly in consultation with the player. 

They emphasised that the procedure was performed with Yamal’s best interests in mind, aiming to ensure his long-term recovery and fitness.

However, the lack of coordination between club and country medical teams has reignited a debate over player welfare and communication protocols within Spanish football.