Barcelona coach furious as 18 year old star ruled out of Valencia clash with back pain
Controversy: Flick Rages at Spain for Forcing Yamal to Play Hurt
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick's launched scathing attack on the Spanish national team for their handling of Lamine Yamal’s fitness during the international break.
Injury Concerns Ignored by Spain
Yamal, just 18 complained of lower back pain but was still forced into action by coach Luis de la Fuente playing 79 minute against Bulgaria and 73 minute against Turkey in the 2026 World cup qualifiers.
Barcelona Left Without Rising Star
The teenager skipped Barcelona’s latest training session and has been ruled out of the Valencia match on Sunday which will also be Barca’s first home game of the season at the Johan Cruyff Stadium.
🚨⚠️ Lamine Yamal will miss tomorrow’s game and can be also out vs Newcastle.
Hansi Flick: “Spain gave him painkillers and even when they were winning they made him play. This is not taking care of the players. I'm very sad about this”. pic.twitter.com/MsjsyDOA3J
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 13, 2025
Flick’s Angry Response
Speaking in his press conference, Flick didn't hide his frustration:
“It’s unfortunate what happened with Lamine Yamal. He played while already in pain and even skipped training between matches. This's disgrace and makes no sense. Spain've the best squad in the world (why risk such young player?)”
Barca’s Start to the Season
Barcelona currently sit unbeaten in La liga 2025 /26 with 2 win against Mallorca & Levante and draw against Rayo Vallecano.
Hansi Flick has suggested Spain needs to take better care of its players after Lamine Yamal took painkillers to play in the international break and is subsequently unavailable for Barcelona with a groin injury.
The 18-year-old played 79 and 73 minutes in Spain’s wins over… pic.twitter.com/opmbqorrFs
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) September 13, 2025
