Luis de la Fuente Defends Lamine Yamal Against Claims of Preferential Treatment

Spain forward Lamine Yamal will miss Thursday's Nations League match against Czechia due to inflammation in his right knee.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed Wednesday that Lamine Yamal will miss Thursday's Nations League fixture against Czechia to undergo treatment for inflammation in his right knee. The 19-year-old forward reported the discomfort following Barcelona's 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid on Sunday. While Yamal remained home to work with club medical staff, he is expected to join the national team on Friday and be available for Sunday's match against England.

De la Fuente dismissed media reports suggesting the teenager received preferential treatment by arriving late to the training camp. The manager stated that the decision to have Yamal skip the initial trip was a medical necessity to avoid unnecessary travel during recovery. Real Sociedad's Mikel Oyarzabal was also permitted a delayed arrival while recovering from the flu in San Sebastian.

Spain currently leads their Nations League group with 12 points from four matches, holding a three-point advantage over second-place England. The defending world champions have already secured a spot in the quarterfinals. Trailing the group leaders are Croatia with three points and Czechia with zero points. De la Fuente noted he has remained in contact with Yamal throughout Tuesday and Wednesday to monitor his progress.