Rafael Nadal Urges Lamine Yamal to Surround Himself With Truth-Tellers

Overview

• Nadal advised the Barcelona winger to pick people who want the best for him and who will tell him hard truths, cautioning that a public persona can suffocate one’s true nature.
• The comments arrive as Yamal continues to draw scrutiny for off-field choices, including a reported relationship with artist Nicky Nicole and high-profile public appearances.
• Yamal has dealt with recurring groin problems this season and recently underwent a radiofrequency procedure for pubalgia that led to his withdrawal from Spain duty.
• Spain’s federation said it learned of the procedure after it was performed and released Yamal from the squad on medical advice, highlighting tensions over communication.
• The 18-year-old is already a central figure for club and country, having helped Barcelona win La Liga last season and starred in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph.