Overview
- Barcelona performed a radiofrequency groin treatment on Lamine Yamal without notifying the Spanish federation, prompting his withdrawal from qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey.
- Luis de la Fuente described relations with clubs as “wonderful” yet open to improvement and stressed that Yamal has many years ahead with the national team.
- Spain would qualify if they beat Georgia and Turkey fail to defeat Bulgaria, or with a Spain draw if Turkey lose, according to the coach and federation scenarios reported.
- Avoiding defeat in Tbilisi would extend Spain’s unbeaten run to 30 matches, a new national record, after four qualifying wins without conceding.
- Spain travel short-handed with Rodri, Dani Carvajal, Pedri, Nico Williams and Yamal unavailable, as De la Fuente warns of further injury risks in a congested calendar and backs Dani Olmo to step up.