Barcelona have confirmed that 18-year-old star Lamine Yamal will miss Spain’s upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Georgia and Bulgaria after suffering a setback with a recurring groin injury.
The teenager, who had only just returned in Barcelona’s 2–1 Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, is now expected to be sidelined for up to three weeks. His absence also casts doubt on his availability for the highly anticipated El Clásico against Real Madrid on October 26.
Club vs Country Debate Reignited
Yamal’s injury has once again sparked tension between Barcelona manager Hansi Flick and Spain coach Luis de la Fuente. Flick had earlier suggested that the forward’s initial problem was worsened by Spain’s September qualifiers.
De la Fuente, however, played down any conflict:
“There is no problem with Flick. I was simply surprised by those comments because he has been a national team coach, and I thought he had that empathy,” he said after announcing his squad for October.
“We are playing for the World Cup, that is what really matters. The rest is secondary. Everyone has had their say, and that’s it.”
The Spain coach also defended his handling of Yamal’s fitness, explaining that the player only reported minor discomfort after matches.
More Injury Setbacks for Spain
Spain’s squad has been further weakened:
- Nico Williams and Dani Carvajal are both sidelined with injuries.
- Striker Álvaro Morata has been left out following a slow start to the season at Como.
Despite these challenges, La Roja remain top of Group E with six points from two games.
They will face Georgia in Elche on October 11 before hosting Bulgaria in Valladolid on October 14.
⚽ Spain will need to cope without some of their key players, but qualification hopes remain strong as they continue their World Cup journey.
