Spain’s coach praises Lamine Yamal and recalls the ‘pain’ of Gavi’s injury.

Luis de la Fuente, the coach of the Spanish national team, did not hold back in praising young prodigy Lamine Yamal, highlighting not only his innate talent but also his exemplary personality. In powerful statements during DAZN’s Revelado program, the coach discussed Yamal’s importance to the national team, especially in light of the devastating emotional impact of Gavi’s injury, his teammate at Barcelona.

With the first international break of 2026 underway, Spain is preparing for two friendly matches against Serbia and Egypt, while gearing up for the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup. La Roja’s hopes are heavily pinned on this 18-year-old, who has already proven to be a key player in the national team’s campaign for UEFA Euro 2024.

De la Fuente did not hesitate to describe Yamal as “an example of a well-mannered, respectful young man with immense talent.” The coach emphasized the rarity of players who possess that “magic touch,” suggesting that Lamine is undoubtedly one of those special talents poised to shine on the world stage.

Moreover, the coach revealed that the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) made a significant effort to ensure that Yamal chose to represent Spain instead of Morocco, highlighting the importance of his decision for the future of the national team. “That is why the RFEF did everything necessary to win his loyalty and convince him that playing for the Spanish national team was the best option,” explained de la Fuente.

The coach also addressed the tensions that arose between Yamal and Real Madrid veteran Dani Carvajal during a classic matchup this season. “In a match like a Clásico, we defend our colors, and that brings enormous responsibility; with the national team, the situation is different, and everyone has to step up,” he said. He expressed confidence that, after these on-field confrontations, the players would embrace each other as teammates, celebrating the camaraderie that unites them.

However, the discussion was not limited to the young talent. De la Fuente also reflected on the pain caused by Gavi’s injury, who suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in November 2023 during a low-stakes qualifying match. “His injury was one of the most difficult moments we have ever experienced; it was incredibly painful for me personally and for his teammates as well,” the coach revealed. “We felt deeply, as if someone from the family had suffered an accident or lost something. He is a player very dear to all of us,” added de la Fuente, emphasizing the emotional impact the injury had on the team.

With these statements, it is clear that Spain is not only preparing for the challenges ahead but is also facing its internal struggles, coming together around young talents like Lamine Yamal and supporting those who are facing difficulties, such as Gavi. The journey of the Spanish national team continues, with the hope that new talents can not only shine but also inspire the next generation of players.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.