Lamine Yamal Withdrawn From Spain Squad For Serbia Match Due To Muscle Injury

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Lamine Yamal will not participate in Spain's Nations League match against Serbia due to a muscle injury. This occurred during their 1-0 victory over Denmark, where Yamal was substituted by Sergio Gomez in the 93rd minute at Estadio Nueva Condomina. Despite limping post-match, medical assessments revealed no major injury.

Following the injury, Atletico Madrid's Rodrigo Riquelme has been called up to replace Yamal in Luis de la Fuente's squad for the upcoming game in Cordoba. The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) confirmed that tests showed only a muscle strain, with no structural damage detected.

The decision to withdraw Yamal from the squad was made to prioritise his health and prevent further risk ahead of the Serbia match. The Spanish national team released a statement on Sunday confirming this precautionary measure.

Yamal has been in remarkable form since Euro 2024, continuing his success into Barcelona's current LaLiga season. He has scored five goals across 11 appearances in all competitions. In terms of dribbles, only Sevilla's Chidera Ejuke surpasses him with 28, while Yamal has completed 27.

Additionally, Yamal has created 18 chances for Hansi Flick’s side, a figure only exceeded by Raphinha’s 32 within Barcelona’s ranks. His contributions have been significant for both club and country.

De la Fuente on Yamal's Treatment

Lamine Yamal first gained international attention during Spain's European Championship triumph earlier this year, contributing four assists and one goal. Despite being early in his career, Spain coach De la Fuente acknowledges that Yamal must adapt to the physical nature of football.

"The referee has to protect these talented players," De la Fuente stated. "But Lamine has to get used to it. I would love it to be a bed of roses, Flower Power, but this sport is like that." He praised Yamal for his exceptional attitude and talent on the right flank.

The coach added humorously, "I had a teammate who used to say: 'What do you want, kisses (from the opponents)?' Teams will use the weapons they can within the rules." This reflects the competitive nature of football that young talents like Yamal must navigate.