FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta spoke about Lamine Yamal’s withdrawal from the Spanish national team, something that upset ‘La Roja’ due to the treatment the 18-year-old winger was undergoing.
FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta assured on Wednesday that the club’s goal is for Lamine Yamal to “be available” to the Barca team and reiterated that the medical services of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) were informed of the treatment the footballer underwent.
In an interview with Catalunya Ràdio, Barça’s top executive gave his version of how the club proceeded after the Mataro footballer received medical treatment on Monday, which forced Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, to withdraw the player from the last two matches of the 2026 World Cup qualifying phase.
“We notified (the RFEF) as soon as we found out. When the doctor who treated him told us that he needed ten days’ rest, we told the national team. We respect all parties involved and do not engage in controversy. We try to treat our players at the pace that suits us,” explained Laporta.
His version contrasts with that given by the RFEF, which in a statement expressed its “surprise” and “discomfort” at the “invasive radiofrequency procedure” to which the footballer was subjected.
“On Monday, the doctor (Ernest Schilders), who is an eminent specialist, arrived. He examined him that same day and informed us of the treatment, and everything has gone smoothly. We want Lamine to be available to the club,” added Laporta, who does not believe that the absence of the player from the Rocafonda neighbourhood will harm the national team, as it is “well on track” to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
And, in this regard, he added: “We are doing what we have to do in the interests of Barca.” Asked about the Barca star’s lifestyle, Laporta praised Lamine Yamal’s maturity, thanking him for “continuing to play” despite his ongoing groin injury.
‘That shows his commitment to Barça and his dedication. Lamine is a genius, and we are very lucky to have him playing for Barca, so we have to protect him. He has not yet reached his peak, and he is already the best player in the world in his position,’ he concluded.
