Madrid: The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has expressed discontent after learning that Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal underwent a medical procedure without prior notification to the Spain national team’s medical staff.
The 18-year-old rising star was forced to withdraw from Spain’s squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey following a radiofrequency treatment on Monday.
In an official statement, the federation revealed that its medical department only learned of the operation late Monday night.
“This procedure was performed without prior notification to the national team’s medical staff, who only learned of the details through a report received at 10:40 p.m. last night,” the RFEF said.
“The report recommended rest for 7–10 days.”
Spain Prioritises Player’s Health
Citing the need to prioritise the player’s recovery, the RFEF confirmed that Yamal has been released from the national team.
“In view of this situation, and prioritising the player’s health, safety and well-being at all times, the Royal Spanish Football Federation has taken the decision to release the player from the current squad,” the statement added.
The Barcelona forward, who has already missed five matches for his club due to injury, has enjoyed an excellent start to the season — scoring six goals and providing six assists in 11 appearances.
Spain Lead Group E Ahead of Crucial Qualifiers
Spain currently sit top of Group E with 12 points from four matches, scoring 15 goals. Turkey trail behind in second place with nine points after three wins and one defeat.
Luis de la Fuente’s side will travel to Tbilisi to face Georgia on Saturday, before returning home to host Turkey in Seville on Tuesday.
Yamal, who has already earned 23 caps for Spain, is expected to return once fully fit.
