Spain head coach, Luis de la Fuente, has confirmed that Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal is available for Sunday’s UEFA Nations League encounter against England after recovering from a knee problem.
De la Fuente disclosed that the 19-year-old winger was feeling much better and was expected to rejoin the national team squad on Friday ahead of the highly anticipated meeting.
According to Reuters, Yamal missed Spain’s 2-0 victory over the Czech Republic on Thursday after experiencing discomfort in his right knee during Barcelona’s 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid on November 8.
Medical examinations reportedly revealed inflammation and fluid accumulation around the joint, prompting Spain’s medical team and Barcelona to agree that the youngster should remain at his club for treatment rather than travel with the squad.
Speaking after Spain’s victory over the Czech Republic, De la Fuente expressed satisfaction with the player’s recovery and confirmed that he was eager to return to international duty.
He said Yamal was feeling very well and looking forward to joining his teammates for training.
The Spanish coach also confirmed that Real Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal would return to the squad after missing the Czech Republic fixture.
Oyarzabal had remained in San Sebastian while recovering from the flu and awaiting the birth of his second child.
De la Fuente explained that both players were expected to participate in Friday’s training session, although they would arrive at different times.
Yamal’s return represents a boost for Spain as they prepare to face England in their final Group A3 fixture at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid on Sunday, November 15.
The encounter is expected to attract considerable attention, with both countries having already secured qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals.
Spain currently lead the group, holding a three-point advantage over England. A draw or victory would guarantee De la Fuente’s side finish top of the standings.
The coach had earlier defended the decision to allow Yamal to remain in Barcelona, dismissing suggestions that the young forward was receiving preferential treatment.
He explained that the decision was based on medical advice and the need to avoid exposing the player to unnecessary travel while recovering from his knee problem.
De la Fuente insisted that the same decision would have been taken for any other member of the squad under similar circumstances.
Yamal has become an important figure in Spain’s attacking setup, with his pace, creativity and ability to create scoring opportunities making him a key player for the national team.
His expected return will provide Spain with another attacking option as they seek to maintain their winning momentum against an England side determined to finish the group stage strongly.
Meanwhile, both teams will use the encounter to assess their preparations ahead of the Nations League quarter-finals.
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