Luis de la Fuente has dismissed Hansi Flick’s complaints about Spain’s handling of Lamine Yamal, saying he’s “not interested” in the Barcelona coach’s criticism. Flick was angered after the teenager was given painkillers on international duty, sparking fears of long-term damage. Now, Barca are carefully managing his recovery ahead of a key Champions League showdown.
Inside the Spain vs Barcelona rift
De la Fuente brushed off Flick’s remarks after the Barcelona coach accused Spain of mismanaging Yamal’s fitness. The 18-year-old winger was called up despite carrying a injury and played through pain against Bulgaria and Turkey in the World Cup qualifiers. Flick claimed the teenager was given painkillers and played almost full matches without training in between, which left Barca frustrated over his condition.
AdvertisementGetty/GOALFlick’s fury over Yamal’s treatment
Flick’s frustration boiled over as Yamal was sidelined with a pubic injury, missing key fixtures against Valencia, Newcastle, Getafe and Oviedo.
"They gave him painkillers and he played 73 and 79 minutes. And between the matches, he didn't train," the German boss said. "That's not taking care of the players. Spain has the best players and the best national team, but they haven't taken care of the players, and that's what I can say. I'm very disappointed."
Despite the youngsters absence, Barca maintained form with four straight wins, but the long-term fitness of their young star remains a major concern for both club and country.
De la Fuente hits back at Flick
The La Roja boss responded during a tribute event in Rioja, where a mural was dedicated to him. The Spain boss avoided entering into the controversy, brushing off Flick’s accusations.
"Do you think that today, in my homeland, and enjoying this moment, I'd remember what Hansi Flick said? Well, no, I'm not interested," he said.
AFPFlick counting on Yamal for Champions League clash against PSG
Yamal is tipped to make his comeback this weekend against Real Sociedad, though Barcelona’s medical team see the clash with Paris Saint-Germain on October 1 as the true target. With Alejandro Balde also expected to return, Flick will be hoping his young winger can stay fit to inspire the Catalan giants in Europe’s toughest tests.