De la Fuente Addresses Clasico Tensions and Yamal’s Injury Ahead of International Matches

Spain’s head coach, De la Fuente, has promptly intervened to alleviate tensions between Barcelona’s rising star Yamal and Real Madrid captain Carvajal, following their altercation during the recent El Clasico.

The incident occurred after Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Carvajal was seen confronting the teenage winger with a mocking hand gesture, saying, “Keep talking, keep talking.” This confrontation drew significant attention, particularly due to Yamal’s pre-match remarks claiming that Real Madrid tends to “steal” games, comments that incensed several players from Los Blancos.

Following the match, the situation escalated when Carvajal approached Yamal to express his discontent. The 18-year-old responded, but teammates quickly intervened to prevent further conflict.

As both players are included in Spain’s squad for the upcoming November international window, there were concerns that the tensions from the Clasico might carry over into the national team camp. However, De la Fuente, speaking on El Partidazo de COPE, reassured everyone that there was no cause for alarm, stating he had spoken individually with both players.

De la Fuente emphasized that the relationship between Carvajal and Yamal remains strong. “I’ve spoken with both of them, and we’ve discussed other matters, primarily focusing on Dani’s injury, which is our top priority for his recovery,” the coach explained. “With Lamine, we also addressed similar issues, including his injury. Our conversations were completely normal, and I am confident that if both are available, there will be no problems whatsoever.”

The coach also refuted claims that Yamal’s prior comments disrespected Carvajal or Real Madrid. “For me, respect is non-negotiable. With respect, we can build any relationship. We must be cautious with our expressions, as they can sometimes be misconstrued and appear more significant than intended. It’s essential to avoid offending others.”

De la Fuente defended Yamal’s intentions but acknowledged that the young player could have phrased his comments more judiciously. “Perhaps it wasn’t the right moment to say what he did. Sometimes, one might intend a statement as a joke, but it does not resonate as such with others.”

The situation took an unexpected turn when the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced Yamal’s release from the squad due to a groin procedure, which had been performed without prior notification to them. The federation expressed “surprise and concern” in an official statement, revealing that they learned of the procedure only after the training camp commenced.

The RFEF confirmed receiving a late-night report detailing a minor radiofrequency procedure on Yamal’s pubic area, with recommendations for at least seven days of rest. De la Fuente expressed his astonishment at the situation, stating, “I have never encountered anything like this. It’s quite unusual to receive health information without prior details.”

Yamal, who had scored during Barcelona’s 4-2 victory over Celta Vigo before being substituted, was replaced in the Spanish squad by Rayo Vallecano’s Jorge de Frutos. The coach reiterated that the player’s health is the priority and wished Yamal a swift recovery.

Spain currently leads World Cup qualifying Group E with 12 points from four matches, three points ahead of second-placed Turkey. De la Fuente’s squad will face Georgia and Turkey in two consecutive qualifiers, needing a result comparable to Turkey’s to secure top position.

While Spain’s qualification campaign has been nearly flawless, recent off-field distractions—from Clasico tensions to Yamal’s injury—have introduced unwanted noise. Nonetheless, De la Fuente has once again shown his capability to maintain squad unity, affirming that professionalism and mutual respect are the cornerstones of Spain’s success.

If results favor them, Spain may secure their place at the 2026 World Cup before the final matchday, reaffirming their resurgence under De la Fuente, even as he navigates the complexities presented by a new generation of outspoken talents like Yamal.