Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expressed his delight on Friday as teenage sensation Lamine Yamal returned to the national squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Turkey. The Barcelona forward had missed Spain’s previous two fixtures due to a groin injury but is now fit to play.
Yamal, just 18 years old, returned to club action in time for Barcelona’s 2-1 Clasico defeat to Real Madrid. The young winger has drawn attention after a post-match confrontation with several Madrid players, which has only increased the spotlight on him.
“He’s fit again and we are delighted to have him back,” De la Fuente said. The coach emphasized the importance of guiding the teenager both on and off the field. “The media is ready to pounce on him, and this should make him dig in. His club must back him up, and the national set-up too,” he added.
Spain faces Georgia on November 15 in Tbilisi, followed by a home clash against Turkey in Seville on November 18. Both matches are part of the crucial World Cup qualifiers, with Spain currently sitting atop Group E and close to securing automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The squad also sees the return of Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Fabián Ruiz, who has recovered from a leg injury sustained during Barcelona’s 2-1 Champions League victory in early October.
However, Spain will be without several key players due to injuries. Barcelona’s Pedri and Manchester City’s Rodri remain sidelined. Additionally, Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal, Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, and Atletico Madrid defender Robin Le Normand will miss the upcoming qualifiers.
De la Fuente stressed the importance of maintaining focus and using the upcoming matches to consolidate Spain’s position at the top of the group. With Yamal back and the team eager to continue its winning form, Spain aims to strengthen its campaign in the World Cup qualifiers and secure a smooth path to next year’s tournament.
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