Concerns grow as Barcelona winger limps after international appearance

Several FC Barcelona players are currently on international duty, including Lamine Yamal, who represents Spain in the UEFA Nations League. Last night, La Roja faced Denmark and secured a 1-0 victory, thanks to Martin Zubimendi’s winning goal.

As has often been the case this season, when teams struggled to contain Lamine Yamal, their opponents resorted to brutal tactics to slow him down. This was evident once again last night, as the 17-year-old was the target of repeated fouls throughout the match by Morten Wieghorst’s team.

Furthermore, as SPORT points out, Lamine Yamal was seen limping after the match, causing concern in Catalonia. However, its discomfort should not lead to serious problems. The Spanish Football Federation is not planning to carry out medical examinations at the moment, as it believes there is no significant injury.

Reports further note that Spain head coach De La Fuente was also asked about the brutal treatment Lamine Yamal received during the match against Denmark. However, the coach downplayed the problem and put the blame on the referees. Here’s what he had to say:

“That’s how football is, you have to play as hard as the rules allow. Football is football and everyone uses their own tactics. It’s the referee’s job to set the limits.

“It’s about intimidation, contact tracing… That’s what they aim to do with such young and talented players. It is the referees who must set the limit, but he will have to get used to it.

Before the match, De La Fuente also praised Yamal, suggesting he possesses a divine spark, with his performances this season fully justifying that label.

With five goals and five assists in 11 games in all competitions, Lamine was one of Hansi Flick’s most important players. The German coach brought out the best not only in the 17-year-old, but also in his attacking partners like Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski.

Next, Spain will face Serbia in the Nations League. In all likelihood, Lamine Yamal could and should be rested for the match, right from the start. The 17-year-old has played continuously for club and country and the rest will be well deserved.

Luis de la Fuente has a number of players capable of playing on the right wing and it is the Spanish coach’s responsibility to protect one of his country’s greatest talents. The onus simply cannot be on Barcelona to make him a superstar.

It remains to be seen how Lamine Yamal will behave in the coming days after a physical test against Denmark. Barcelona will want him to be fully fit against Bayern Munich and Real Madrid and let’s see how he performs in the biggest tests ahead.