Spanish Federation Surprised by Yamal’s Medical Procedure Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers

Lamine Yamal has been released from the Spain squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey, leading to surprise within the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). An official statement from the federation was issued on Tuesday regarding this matter.

The RFEF Medical Services expressed their astonishment and concern over the situation, stating, “The RFEF Medical Services wish to express their surprise and dismay upon learning at 1:47 p.m. on Monday, November 10, the day the official training camp with the national team began, that player Lamine Yamal had undergone an invasive radiofrequency procedure to treat his pubic discomfort that same morning. This procedure was performed without prior notification to the national team’s medical staff, who only became aware of the details through a report received at 10:40 p.m. last night, which indicated a medical recommendation of rest for 7-10 days. Given this situation, and prioritizing at all times the health, safety, and well-being of the player, the Royal Spanish Football Federation has made the decision to release the athlete from the current call-up. We are confident that he will recover well and wish him a speedy and full recovery.”

This latest development is likely to reignite tensions between the RFEF and FC Barcelona. In an interview with RNE Deportes, coach Luis de la Fuente shared his thoughts on Yamal’s withdrawal: “There are procedures that take place outside the Federation’s control. That’s what happens; we have to accept it. I’ve never experienced a situation like this before. I don’t think it’s very normal. It has surprised us all. You don’t have any news, you don’t know any details, and on top of that, it’s a health issue, so you’re left surprised.”

Last week, De la Fuente defended his decision to call up Yamal, seemingly responding to criticisms from Barcelona’s coach Hansi Flick. The two have exchanged barbs since September, when Flick accused the RFEF of neglecting Yamal’s health after he sustained an injury while on international duty.

“I think the answer is obvious. I watched his last game, and I believe he’s in perfect condition,” De la Fuente stated during a press conference. “His coach said he was ready to play. He’s getting back to being the player he always has been, and we celebrate that. He will stay with us as long as we consider it appropriate.”

Emphasizing the importance of the upcoming matches, De la Fuente concluded, “We have two hugely important matches to qualify for the World Cup, the stakes are massive and we want the best players with us.”

On Sunday, RFEF president Rafael Louzan acknowledged minor disagreements between the national team and Barcelona, but insisted there were no concerns about escalating tensions. He noted, “Luis de la Fuente has a very good relationship with everyone,” while also recognizing that Flick “wants his players in perfect condition.” Louzan characterized the exchanges as minor disagreements that were not likely to escalate.

According to journalist Fernando Polo, Barcelona is considering various treatment options for Yamal’s chronic groin injury. The radiofrequency therapy performed on him has reportedly caused frustration within the RFEF.

This treatment involves delivering controlled electrical currents through fine needles, guided by imaging techniques, to suppress nerve signals causing pain. The minimally invasive procedure typically does not require hospitalization.

If there are no further complications, Yamal is expected to be fit and available for the match against Athletic Club on November 22.