Spanish Coach Responds to Drama with Barca and Yamal

Coach Luis de la Fuente has officially addressed the controversy with Hansi Flick regarding Lamine Yamal, while also reassuring Barcelona ahead of crucial upcoming matches.

Spain's national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, denied any conflict with Hansi Flick following harsh comments from the German coach. Previously, Yamal returned to Barcelona injured after the international break, prompting Flick to criticize the Spanish team's management of the young player. This issue attracted attention because Yamal is a rising star for Barcelona in the Champions League and a contender for future Ballon d'Or honors.

When asked directly about Flick’s remarks, De la Fuente stated: "There is no conflict with Flick. I was just surprised by those comments because, having been a coach myself, I expected some empathy, but truly there is no problem." He emphasized that he wants to focus on Spain’s next two matches rather than off-field disputes.

Moreover, the media has scrutinized Yamal’s fitness. In response to doubts that the young player was fielded before being fully fit, De la Fuente candidly replied: "I always tell the truth. Have you ever played football? Have you ever played without feeling any discomfort? It’s very normal, but Yamal had no issues before or after the game. There were no mistakes, zero risk. If a player is called up, it means they are fit to play."

The Spanish coach also reassured Barca fans worried about Yamal’s potential overload. He said that if Barcelona reports any problems with the player, the national team will immediately send him back to the club without any obstacles. However, he stressed that Yamal just completed a full 90 minutes against PSG in the Champions League, and his condition will be reassessed after the match against Sevilla.

Additionally, De la Fuente mentioned the Ballon d'Or race, where stars like Dembele, Xavi, Iniesta, and Raul have been referenced: "I always want a Spanish player to win the award. In the past, we deserved Xavi, Iniesta, or Raul. I would choose to give it to a Spanish player, but Dembele also deserves it."

He concluded with a message to Barca supporters: "President Laporta himself said he is very happy when Barca players are called up because it shows things are being done right. And when they wear the national jersey, their value also increases."

Will De la Fuente’s firm statements be enough to reassure Barcelona and Hansi Flick ahead of the decisive phase in the Champions League?