Overview
- Yamal returned to full training at Spain’s Chattanooga base on Thursday and is considered available for the Group H opener against Cape Verde.
- De la Fuente said Yamal is fit to play but “not to play the 90 minutes,” and has rejected the player’s request to start the match.
- Reports indicate the coach plans a controlled 15–20 minute cameo off the bench in the opener, with a stepped increase in minutes planned across the group stage.
- Teammates have publicly praised Yamal’s focus and importance to the team while his off‑field social posts and a Walmart sighting have amplified his profile.
- Barcelona and Spain adopted a conservative, non‑surgical rehab after his April hamstring tear and are managing load now to reduce reinjury risk and protect Spain’s knockout‑stage hopes.