"He's fit and in good shape": Spain manager on Lamine Yamal's recovery
New York, June 15
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente said that Lamine Yamal is fully fit and progressing well in his recovery.
He explained that Yamal, along with other players who had minor injury concerns, has been training well and is available for selection.
However, De la Fuente indicated that these players are unlikely to start the match and may instead be used later in the game.
Yamal has not played since April, as the 18-year-old struggled with groin issues and a hamstring injury.
European champions Spain will begin their World Cup campaign against Cape Verde at Atlanta Stadium in Georgia on Monday night. Saudi Arabia and Uruguay are also in this group.
"The good news is that Lamine is very fit. He's following the set process, and he's in good shape, he's training very well, just like his other colleagues who had some sort of injury. They're all available, and they won't be able to play from the start of the match," De la Fuente told reporters as per Reuters.
"We'll have to wait and see how the game progresses, and then we'll make a decision on how they can contribute to the team. It's a matter of logic, of how the game is evolving, the game situation," he added.
Spain, the reigning European champions and 2010 FIFA World Cup winner, enters the tournament as one of the leading favourites to lift the trophy once again.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Smart management from De la Fuente. No need to rush a young talent back. Spain's group is tricky though—Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay. They should top it easily, but you never know in World Cups. 🏆
Honestly, Spain's caution is understandable. Groin and hamstring issues can linger if not handled properly. But with Yamal's talent, even 20 minutes could change a game. Excited to see him back! 🇪🇸
Spain are my dark horses this World Cup. Great blend of youth and experience. Yamal's recovery is key—if he's fully fit by the knockouts, watch out. Cape Verde shouldn't be underestimated though; they've been solid in qualifiers.
It's smart that they're not rushing him. But I wonder if De la Fuente is being too conservative? Sometimes players need game time to regain rhythm. Still, with Spain's midfield, they can control games even without him starting. 🤔
Spain's setup is impressive. They've been consistent since winning Euro 2024. Yamal is the future, but right now, they have enough firepower. Uruguay will be tough—they always raise their game against big teams. Interesting group!
V Vikram M