Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has launched a stinging attack on the Spanish national team after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was ruled out of Barca's LaLiga clash against Valencia. The 18-year-old winger is also a major doubt for their Champions League tie against Newcastle United.
Yamal picked up a groin injury while on international duty with Spain, playing in World Cup qualifying wins against Bulgaria and Turkey. Flick is furious with how Spain managed the young star.
"He will not be available – for me it's a pity. He went to the national team with pain, he did not train, he got painkillers for playing," Flick told a press conference. "In every match they were three goals (or more) ahead, he played 79 and 73 minutes. Between the matches he didn't train. This is not taking care about players."
Flick added, "Spain have best team in the world best players in the world. In every position they are unbelievably good. Maybe also when we want to take care of players, young players, it's like that, doing this... I'm really sad about this."
Barcelona later confirmed that Yamal is suffering from a pubic bone issue and is doubtful for the Newcastle game.
Flick also revealed he'd had limited communication with Spain coach Luis de la Fuente. "Maybe it's all about my Spanish not (being) good, his English not good. Communication... there could be better," he said. "I was also on this side, (coaching a) national team, and I know how hard this job can be, but the communication with the clubs was always good."
Barcelona will play their game against Valencia at the Johan Cruyff training ground due to the ongoing renovations at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Yamal's Injury: A Blow for Barcelona
The injury to Lamine Yamal is a significant setback for Barcelona as they look to compete on both domestic and European fronts. The young winger has quickly become a key player for the Catalan giants.
What's Next for Yamal?
Yamal will undergo further assessment to determine the extent of his injury and the timeframe for his return. Barcelona will be hoping he can recover quickly and return to action as soon as possible.
De Jong Also Out
Flick also confirmed that Frenkie de Jong will miss the Valencia game.