‘Has a very bright future’ – Spain coach delivers major update on Barcelona star and praises La Masia talent | OneFootball

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has provided fresh updates on several Barcelona players as the national team continue their preparations for the upcoming World Cup.

Speaking ahead of Spain’s friendly match against Iraq, the coach addressed questions surrounding Lamine Yamal’s fitness, the battle for the goalkeeper position and the progress of highly-rated midfielder Marc Bernal.

With the World Cup opener fast approaching, De la Fuente’s comments offered a clearer picture of where several Barcelona stars currently stand within the national team setup.

What was said?

The biggest focus naturally centred on Lamine Yamal, whose fitness has been closely monitored following his recent injury concerns.

De la Fuente confirmed that the Barcelona winger will not be involved in the friendly against Iraq as Spain continue to carefully manage his recovery.

“Neither Lamine, Nico nor Víctor will be playing tomorrow [against Iraq]. The plan is to stick to what we had planned with Lamine.

Lamine Yamal will not play against Iraq. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“There are still a few days to go, but if things continue as they have been, he could be fit by the 15th. 

“That doesn’t guarantee he’ll have to play. We’ll assess the situation as we go along,” he assured.

The goalkeeping role

The Spain manager was also asked about the goalkeeping position, with Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia among the options available.

While refusing to reveal his final decision publicly, De la Fuente hinted that he already knows who will start between the posts.

“Out of respect, I usually tell the players the line-up first. I know, as of today, who the starting goalkeeper will be, and I could almost tell you the team, barring any setbacks that might arise, of course. 

“Rest assured, it will be a top-class goalkeeper.”

On Marc Bernal

Bernal was praised by De la Fuente. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Another Barcelona player who received praise from De la Fuente was Marc Bernal.

The young midfielder is currently part of the support group training with the national team ahead of the World Cup. 

While he will not travel to the tournament due to FIFA regulations, his performances in camp have clearly caught the attention of Spain’s coaching staff.

“We’re very pleased with all the players who have been helping us. When you’re living alongside them, you get a sense of their essence and potential. 

“Marc has a very bright future if he keeps working in that vein and he’ll go far. And that will be great news for his club and for us,” said the Spanish coach.

Source: Mundo Deportivo