There is tensions between Barcelona and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) after claims emerged about how Lamine Yamal’s back injury was handled during the recent international break.
The 18-year-old winger played significant minutes for Spain against Bulgaria and Turkiye despite carrying discomfort, prompting anger from Barca coach Hansi Flick.
The German manager slammed the national team for risking the youngster’s health, with Yamal now set to miss Barcelona’s Champions League opener against Newcastle after sitting out the weekend clash with Valencia.
Conflicting accounts emerge
According to reports from Cadena SER, Spain officials insist they were unaware Yamal had any serious injury, saying Barcelona had not flagged a problem.
From their perspective, the teenager was fit to feature and gave no indication of pain.
Barcelona, however, have reportedly shared internal communication suggesting otherwise. One message allegedly stated: “We injected him in the spine with Voltaren because he couldn’t leave the hotel, and he asked us not to play.”
The club believes this treatment should have ruled Yamal out of action, and the decision to field him was reckless given his long-term importance.
RFEF avoids confrontation
The RFEF has denied wrongdoing and is eager to avoid escalating tensions publicly. Spanish media outlet Marca reported that federation staff maintain Yamal gave them permission to start both matches.
Behind the scenes, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco and Spain’s director of football Aitor Karanka are expected to hold further discussions to strengthen communication and avoid repeat issues.
Flick’s concern grows
Despite the dispute, questions remain over Barcelona’s own handling of the situation. Yamal started and completed a full match against Rayo Vallecano just before reporting for international duty, with signs of back discomfort already visible.
Still, Flick has not held back in his criticism. “He played too much when it wasn’t necessary,” the coach said after the Valencia match.
Barcelona now face the prospect of beginning their European campaign without Yamal, in what could be an early test of their attack.