Spain Coach Welcomes Lamine Yamal Back for World Cup Qualifiers

Spain’s head coach Luis de la Fuente has expressed his delight at the return of teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal to the national squad ahead of crucial World Cup qualifying matches. The Barcelona forward, who had been sidelined due to a groin injury, has recovered in time to rejoin the team as they prepare to face Georgia and Turkey.

Yamal, just 18 years old, missed Spain’s previous two qualifiers because of his injury but made a comeback to club action recently. Despite Barcelona’s tough 2-1 defeat against rivals Real Madrid in the recent El Clasico, Yamal's presence remains a focal point in Spanish football discussions. The young forward found himself in the spotlight after a confrontation with several Real Madrid players following the match, an incident that has drawn intense media scrutiny.

Speaking on Friday, Luis de la Fuente was unequivocal in his support for the young talent. "He’s fit again and we are delighted to have him back," the coach said, emphasizing the importance of Yamal’s fitness to Spain’s campaign. When pressed about the media attention surrounding the teenager, de la Fuente showed a protective stance, urging patience and understanding.

"The media is ready to pounce on him and this should make him dig in," de la Fuente noted. "He’s just 18 years old, we need to help and guide him so he can mature as a person and a player. His club must back him up and the national set-up too."

Yamal’s return is timely for Spain, who are currently top of Group E in the European World Cup qualifying section. With automatic qualification within reach, his inclusion strengthens the squad’s attacking options. Spain will face Georgia in Tbilisi on November 15, followed by a home match against Turkey in Seville on November 18.

In addition to Yamal, Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Fabian Ruiz is also back in contention after recovering from a leg injury sustained during PSG’s 2-1 Champions League victory over Barcelona in early October.

However, Spain will be without some key players. Barcelona’s Pedri and Manchester City’s Rodri remain sidelined due to injuries. Real Madrid’s captain Dani Carvajal, Athletic Bilbao’s winger Nico Williams, and Atletico Madrid’s defender Robin Le Normand are also out of the squad due to injury concerns.

As Spain pushes for a strong finish in the qualifiers, the return of youthful talents like Yamal provides both hope and excitement for the team and its supporters. Luis de la Fuente’s commitment to nurturing young players while balancing the demands of high-stakes international football is expected to be a key factor in Spain’s quest for World Cup qualification and success on the global stage.