Barcelona Responds to RFEF’s Claims Regarding Yamal’s Injury Treatment

Barcelona has officially responded to accusations from the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) concerning the club’s communication regarding Lamine Yamal’s injury treatment, which led to his withdrawal from Spain’s World Cup qualifying squad. Yamal was released from international duty earlier this week after undergoing radiofrequency therapy for persistent pubalgia. The RFEF claimed they were informed of the procedure only hours after it occurred, a statement that Barcelona firmly disputes.

The treatment was performed in consultation with Dr. Ernest Schilders, a renowned Belgian specialist in the field. Barcelona asserts that the procedure received joint approval from their medical staff, the player, and Dr. Schilders, and that the RFEF was promptly notified afterward, as reported by Mundo Deportivo. The club emphasizes that they have acted appropriately throughout the process.

The procedure took place on Monday, November 10, the day following the match against Celta Vigo. Barcelona stated that Yamal’s recovery is “under control,” with no serious complications expected. They reiterated that their primary focus is ensuring Yamal’s “optimal recovery and progressive return to the pitch” and that they have maintained continuous communication with the Spanish medical team during this time.

This latest disagreement underscores the escalating tension between the two institutions, following prior public disputes regarding Yamal’s workload and management during international duty. The RFEF issued a detailed statement expressing their dissatisfaction with the situation, alleging that Barcelona conducted Yamal’s treatment without prior notification.

“The Medical Services of the RFEF wish to express their surprise and discomfort after learning at 13:47 on Monday, November 10, that player Lamine Yamal had undergone an invasive radiofrequency procedure for the treatment of his pubic discomfort that same morning, without prior communication to the national team’s medical staff,” the statement read. They only received details through a report at 22:40 that evening, which recommended a rest period of 7-10 days.

Despite these tensions, the RFEF conveyed their best wishes for Yamal’s recovery, expressing confidence in his return to full health, but viewed the actions of Barcelona as a breach of medical protocol.

Spain’s head coach, De la Fuente, echoed the RFEF’s position, revealing that this situation is unprecedented for him. “There are procedures that take place outside the Federation’s control,” he remarked. “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.”

De la Fuente also defended his earlier decision to call up Yamal despite concerns about his fitness, stating, “I think the answer is obvious. I watched his last game, and I believe he’s in perfect condition.” He emphasized the importance of having the best players available for the crucial qualification matches ahead.

Barcelona maintains that Yamal’s radiofrequency therapy is a standard medical decision, characterized as a minimally invasive treatment designed to alleviate nerve-related groin pain. The club believes they acted with complete transparency and cooperation, asserting that all necessary documentation was provided to the Federation.

Yamal’s recovery is being closely monitored by Barcelona’s medical team, who anticipate his return following the international break. The winger has played three full matches in his last four appearances, scoring in each, and is expected to be ready for Barcelona’s match against Athletic Club on November 22, barring any setbacks. Meanwhile, Spain’s quest for qualification for the 2026 World Cup remains viable, but the management of one of Europe’s most promising young talents has reignited the longstanding tensions between club and country.