Spain coach Luis de la Fuente confirms Lamine Yamal is available for Sunday’s Nations League clash with England after recovering from a knee issue.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has confirmed that Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal is available for Sunday’s UEFA Nations League encounter against England after recovering from a minor knee problem.
De la Fuente said the 19-year-old would join the national team squad on Friday ahead of the fixture at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid.
Also read:Obi, Doherty reject new national anthem at NDC rally
According to Reuters, the coach confirmed that Yamal was feeling well and eager to return to the group after missing Spain’s 2-0 victory over Czechia in Prague on Thursday.
“He’s available and he’s joining us today,” the coach said.
Yamal was left out of the trip to Prague after experiencing discomfort and inflammation in his right knee following Barcelona’s recent La Liga match against Atlético Madrid.
Medical examinations reportedly detected fluid in the joint, prompting Spain’s coaching and medical staff to allow him to remain in Barcelona for treatment rather than risk aggravating the problem during the journey.
De la Fuente had earlier explained that the issue was not considered serious and that Yamal could have played against Czechia if necessary. However, the coaching staff considered it wiser to prioritise his recovery ahead of the England fixture.
Yamal is expected to train with the squad before Sunday’s encounter, although his involvement will depend on his condition and the coaching staff’s assessment.
Real Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal is also expected to rejoin the team after missing the Czechia match. Reuters reported that his absence was related to the birth of his second child, rather than the knee problem affecting Yamal.
Spain head into the final Group A3 fixture at the top of the standings, three points ahead of England. Both countries have already secured qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals.
Sunday’s meeting will therefore determine the group winner, with Spain needing only a draw to maintain top spot.
Also read:Obi, Doherty reject new national anthem at NDC rally
Yamal’s availability offers Spain an important attacking option as they prepare to face England in what is expected to be a closely watched contest.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
