Spain boss refuses to confirm Lamine Yamal’s role against Czech Republic: ‘Important at any stage of the match’

Luis de la Fuente has kept his plans for Lamine Yamal under wraps ahead of Spain’s Nations League meeting with the Czech Republic, refusing to confirm whether the Barcelona winger will start.

Yamal has already been one of Spain’s standout performers during the international break, having started against both England and Croatia, contributing three goals and an assist across the two matches.

With another demanding game approaching, De la Fuente was asked directly about the 19-year-old Barcelona star’s place in the starting XI but offered no indication of his selection.

De la Fuente keeps Yamal decision private

It must be remembered that Yamal played the full match against England before featuring for 68 minutes in Spain’s clash with Croatia.

Asked whether the Barcelona star would start again, De la Fuente insisted the final decision had not yet been made.

“We’ll field the best team for tomorrow’s match. We’ve got it in mind, but we’ll put the finishing touches to it tonight,” he said, as per Mundo Deportivo.

Lamine Yamal has featured heavily for Spain. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

That leaves Yamal’s involvement against the Czech Republic unclear, with Spain’s coaching staff weighing their options before finalising the team.

Spain boss highlights Yamal’s impact

De la Fuente also made clear that Yamal’s influence does not depend on how many minutes he plays, stating,

“He’s important at any stage of the match – whether from the start, or from the 60th or 45th minute. It’s no more or less difficult to leave him out. 

“When we pick him, it’s because he’s effective for the team,” he explained.

The Spain boss was equally positive about the youngster’s development, pointing to his growing maturity both on and off the pitch.

Barcelona will keep an eye on Yamal’s workload. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

“It’s a pleasure to watch him; he’s maturing every day. He reads all situations, even those outside the match itself. That’s brilliant news.”

Barcelona will be watching Yamal’s workload

Spain’s decision will also be of interest to Barcelona, who face a packed schedule immediately after the international window.

Barça are set to play five matches in just 15 days from October 10, including a Champions League meeting with PSG and El Clasico at Spotify Camp Nou. 

That workload makes Yamal’s minutes particularly important for his club.

The winger has already been heavily involved for Spain, and another extended appearance against the Czech Republic would add to his workload before a demanding run of fixtures with Barcelona.