‘It’s important to be transparent’ – RFEF technical director issues fresh update on Barcelona superstar’s return plans | OneFootball

With Spain’s World Cup campaign fast approaching, one of the biggest talking points surrounding the national team continues to be the fitness of Barcelona star Lamine Yamal.

The teenage sensation remains one of Spain’s most important players despite his age, and naturally, there has been growing interest regarding when he could return to action. 

However, those hoping for a definitive timeline will have to wait a little longer.

Why is that?

Speaking from Spain’s training base, RFEF technical director Aitor Karanka provided an encouraging update while making it clear that caution remains the priority. 

Karanka has provided update on Lamine’s fitness. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Karanka addressed reports suggesting there is already an agreement in place for Yamal to feature in Spain’s third group-stage match. 

While he did not confirm any specific target date, he stressed that communication between the national team and Barcelona has been constant throughout the recovery process.

“We’ll see when the best time is for him to return. My relationship with Bojan and Deco—even though I didn’t play alongside them—has been fantastic from the very beginning. 

“It’s important to be transparent. We’ve been in contact with Barça’s medical staff, and we’re all working together to determine the best time,” he began, as per Mundo Deportivo.

Patience will be the best approach

Karanka also used the opportunity to praise the youngster’s character and personality, highlighting qualities that go beyond what many fans see on the pitch.

There is no fixed timeline for Lamine Yamal’s return. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

“He has that innate joy off the field. He conveys it, and on the field he has that freshness and quality that will allow him to define an era.”

Lastly, he was asked about the management of the injured players within the national team, to which he said,

“This is another of the team’s successes—that of the medical staff and the coaching staff. Assessing each player’s readiness. 

“Luis has the final say alongside the doctors. Recovery is going very well in all three cases, and it’s Luis who will consult with the doctors to determine what’s best. It’s up to the doctors and Luis now,” he concluded.