October 13, (THEWILL) – Spain rising football star Lamine Yamal has been withdrawn from the national squad for the upcoming Nation League match against Serbia, due to a muscle injury. The 17-year-old Barcelona forward sustained the injury during Spain’s 1-0 victory over Denmark on Saturday at the Estadio Nevada Condomina.
Yamal, who was substituted in the 93rd minute of the Denmark match, underwent medical examinations which revealed no structural damage. However, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), confirmed it was a case of muscle strain and decided to prioritise the player’s health by removing him from the squad for the Serbia fixture in Cordoba.
Atletico Madrid’s Rodrigo Riquelme has been called up as Yamal’s replacement in Luis de la Fuente’s squad. The decision reflects Spain’s cautious approach to managing young talent, especially given Yamal’s impressive performances both for his club and country in recent months.
Yamal’s impact on Spanish football has been significant since his breakthrough at Euro 2024. In the current La Liga season, he has scored five goals in 11 appearances for Barcelona across all competitions. His dribbling skills have been particularly noteworthy, with only Sevilla’s Nigerian international Chidera Ejuke completing more dribbles in the league this season.
Spain’s head coach, De la Fuente, acknowledged the physical challenges Yamal faces on the pitch. He emphasised that while referees should protect talented players, Yamal must also adapt to the robust nature of professional football. De la Fuente praised Yamal’s exceptional attitude and the value he brings to the team, particularly from the right flank.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
