Spain Drops Lamine Yamal From Qualifiers After Unnotified Radiofrequency Procedure

Overview

• The RFEF announced Yamal’s removal from the squad for World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey after learning he underwent a radiofrequency treatment on the morning of Nov. 10.
• Federation medical staff said they were informed of the procedure only at 13:47 on Nov. 10 and received detailed documentation at 22:40 recommending seven to ten days of rest.
• The RFEF criticized the lack of prior communication from club-linked medical staff and framed the decision as prioritizing the player’s safety and well-being.
• Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said he was surprised by the outside treatment, noted Yamal wanted to remain with the team, and called for mutual respect between club and country.
• Yamal has been managing pubalgia this season, and reporting notes Barcelona sought external expertise, with specialists explaining the condition can require ongoing, multidisciplinary care.