Spain: Joan Laporta explains Lamine Yamal’s withdrawal | OneFootball

Lamine Yamal

FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta has finally spoken out to clarify the circumstances behind Lamine Yamal’s last-minute withdrawal from the Spain squad.

Yesterday, tensions once again flared between the Spanish Football Federation and FC Barcelona—this time over Lamine Yamal. The young starlet was sent back to Catalonia, and La Roja accused his club of not notifying them about his visit to a specialist for pubalgia. Questioned this morning about the controversy, Barça president Joan Laporta responded.

"We informed them as soon as we knew. When the doctor treating him told us he needed ten days of rest, we immediately notified the national team. We respect everyone involved and don’t get involved in controversies. We aim to manage our players’ recovery at the pace that suits us. On Monday, the doctor—an eminent specialist—arrived, examined him, and laid out the treatment plan. Everything went smoothly. We want Lamine available for the club. This rest period coincided with the call-up, but I don’t think it harms the national team’s standing, as they’re in a great position. We’re doing what we have to do in Barça’s best interests," he told Catalunya Ràdio.